This type of acupuncture is based upon the Theory of the Five Elements. The practitioner’s observations are coupled with the five Daoist phases of nature; fire, earth, metal, water and wood. According to this theory, qi moves naturally through these five elements in the body. When there is an illness, the flow of qi has become fixed in one of these elements and corresponding signs and symptoms are expressed.
An example of this would be someone who is manifesting a pathology indicative of the wood element. Emotionally, the patient may have unexplained bursts of anger or shouting, depression, impaired decision making skills, self esteem issues, inability to plan or even a workaholic and overstressed lifestyle. Physically, the patient may have muscle tension, hepatitis, seizures, tremor or pain in an area dominated by the wood element.
A Five Element treatment will usually require a more in depth health intake that involves reflection on the patient’s life goals, fears, desires and relationships. As a result, this treatment is ideal for the patient who is looking to make both physical and emotional changes.