Wood

Growth, Movement, and Vision

Season: Spring

Organ System: Liver and Gallbladder

Wood represents growth, flexibility, and forward movement, similar to plants pushing upward through soil. In the body, Wood governs smooth circulation of energy, emotional flow, and the ability to plan, adapt, and move forward. When Wood is balanced, we feel motivated and flexible. When out of balance, we may experience tension, frustration, stagnation, or irritability. 

Fire

Warmth, Connection, & Joy

Season: Summer

Organ System: Heart and Small Intestine

Fire represents warmth, vitality, and connection, similar to the peak energy of summer. In the body, Fire governs circulation, emotional warmth, joy, and mental clarity. Balanced Fire supports enthusiasm and emotional ease. Excess Fire may appear as restlessness or agitation, while deficient Fire may feel like emotional flatness or fatigue.

Earth

Nourishment, Stability, & Center

Season: Late Summer

Organ System: Spleen and Stomach

Earth represents grounding and nourishment, similar to fertile soil that transforms food into life.

In the body, Earth governs digestion, assimilation of nutrients, energy production, and mental focus.

When Earth is strong, we feel grounded and supported. When weakened, we may experience digestive discomfort, heaviness, worry, or mental fog.

Metal

Structure, Breath, & Letting Go

Season: Autumn

Organ System: Lungs and Large Intestine

Metal represents structure, refinement, and release, similar to leaves falling in autumn.

In the body, Metal governs respiration, immune defense, boundaries, and the ability to let go physically and emotionally. Balanced Metal supports resilience and clarity. Imbalance may show up as frequent illness, dryness, or difficulty releasing grief or attachments.