Basic Components of Nature Guide

The Chinese system identifies five phases or elements (Wuxing):

• Wood (木 - mù): Represents growth, vitality, and flexibility.
• Fire (火 - huǒ): Represents passion, energy, and warmth.
• Earth (土 - tǔ): Represents stability, nourishment, and grounding.
• Metal (金 - jīn): Represents sharpness, structure, and transformation.
• Water (水 - shuǐ): Represents fluidity, adaptability, and coolness.

It's important to note that these are often referred to as "phases" or "agents" rather than static elements, emphasizing their dynamic and interconnected nature. They are used to explain a wide range of phenomena, from the cycles of nature to human health and governance.