There is often some confusion around which 5 elements – Yoga ones, Chinese ones? 5 elements are found in all aspects of life. Many other cultures integrate the elements eg. Celtic traditions.

Ayurvedic Yoga Philosophy describes Bhutas -Earth, Water, Fire, Air and Ether and you can see that these correspond well to the first 5 chakras. The 5 elements connect our organs and body tissues with our environment.

Thank you to Isabel who sent these gorgeous paintings.

Traditional Chinese Medicine Elements

Earth – growing, nourishing, changing, grounding, centering, accepting of others, trusting, enjoying the pleasure of emotions, a love of nature and the planet.

Wood – germinating, extension, softness, harmony, Spring

Fire – heat, radiating, flaring, Summer

Metal – clearing, eliminating, strength, reap, firmness, Autumn

Water – Winter, cold, moisture, downward, flowing, storing.