Wu Xing. Normally translated as the 5 elements, but they refer to energetic movements, stages of transformation or phases of a cycle. They occur in the universe, in nature and therefore also within the human body. They are:
These five movements are interrelated to each other. One follows the other, they generate and dominate each other to maintain balance. Any problem in one of the elements will manifest in the rest, because they form a whole. There cannot be a cycle if any of them is missing. The relationships of generation and domination are the basis for the use of Ancient Shu Points in therapy to restore the balance of the body's energetic movements.
Generating sequence
Also called the Sheng cycle, generating cycle or Mother-Child relationship.
- Wood generates Fire
- Fire generates Earth
- Earth generates Metal
- Metal generates Water
- Water generates Wood
Problems
- If the mother is weak, she does not nourish the child adequately.
- If the child is very demanding, it steals energy from the mother and weakens her.
If the elements only generated each other there would be an unbridled growth and life would not be possible. Limits and containment are needed to maintain a balance.
Controlling sequence
Also called the Ke cycle, domination cycle, inhibition or Grandfather-Grandchild.
Using a traditional Chinese family as an example: the mother figure wants to give the child everything he wants, while the grandfather has a role of authority that sets limits to the grandchild.
- Wood controls Earth
- Earth controls Water
- Water controls Fire
- Fire controls Metal
- Metal controls Wood
Problems
- If the Grandfather is too strong and dominates the Grandchild excessively, it is called overacting or aggression.
- If the Grandchild is too strong and does not allow himself to be dominated by the Grandfather it is called insulting or opposition.