The Chinese Elements or The Five Phases

The ancient Chinese philosophers looked to the natural world to find a way of describing how we are similar, yet unique. They discovered that pretty much anything in the world could be broken down into five energy types, which they called the Five Phases.

The Five Phases – Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. They are believed to be the fundamental roots of the universe and hold the key to all interactions.

Each Chinese element has its own characteristics, with each having its own role within the universe. Each element has its own defined strengths and weaknesses, with one not being stronger than another. All things arise from and return to the universe and are composed of these elements. Therefore, understanding our own connection to them is important.