What are the Five Elements?

When you look at the Bagua Map (a tool used in Feng Shui) you will see that each direction is associated with an element, a family member, season, and parts of the physical body, among other things.

Everything in our environment is made up of at least one of these elements. When the elements are out of balance and Qi cannot flow easily from one stage to another, blockages occur, causing agitation in our environments which we absorb, affecting our well-being. (See Feng Shui and Health).

An advanced Flying Star Feng Shui analysis is the most effective way of determining an elemental imbalance.  The results are examined, enabling the Feng Shui practitioner to suggest the correct element needed to enhance the positive Qi or reduce negative Qi effects in each location. In Authentic Feng Shui, the actual elements are always used if possible.

Ideally, we want the Elements to flow in a "Sheng Cycle." The " Sheng Cycle" generates or creates harmony in environments and people. In the Sheng Cycle, Water gives birth to Wood, Wood gives birth to Fire, Fire gives birth to Earth, Earth gives birth to Metal, Metal gives birth to Water, and the cycle continues. All Elements are not needed, but at least two elements from this cycle are needed for energy to flow harmoniously. When the Elements are balanced, Qi flows smoothly from one stage to another.

Our health will be good, our thinking will be exact, and things will quickly come our way. If Qi's flow is blocked or imbalanced, it will manifest outwardly in all areas affecting everything. We may suffer from ill health or struggle to get things accomplished.  It is beneficial if you have some of each element in your environment. Listed in the information on each element are some ways to determine what may be experienced if imbalances occur.