Wood Qi
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| courtesy of free.serpico |
Not only do the Five Elements govern our organs and meridian systems in TCM, they also influence our personalities and the way we think and behave. Each element has its own unique qualities and those elements that are more dominant within us are said to shape our basic nature. So let’s take a look at the element associated with Spring in Chinese medicine: Wood.
In the creative cycle of the Five Element Theory wood nourishes fire (heart) and in the destructive cycle it controls earth (spleen). Wood governs the liver (yin organ) and gallbladder (yang organ). It is in charge of muscles and tendons and its outlet is the eyes.
Excess wood qi
An excess in liver or gallbladder qi may cause:
rigid or cracked fingernails
muscle spasms usually in the head, neck or shoulders; eye twitches
high blood pressure and headaches
visual problems and dizziness
menstrual problems
tingling and numbness in extremities
Excess wood qi can make you shout and prone to sudden outbursts of anger. Others may think you are inflexible, a workaholic, insensitive and self-destructive.
Deficient wood qi
A deficiency in liver or gallbladder qi may cause:
insomnia, tiredness and lack of energy
digestive problems, sensitivities to food and other allergies
nervous and unexplained restless energy
indecisiveness and feelings of shame
depression and frustration
lack of creative energy and general feelings of being stuck
common addictions
In general someone with a wood personality is said to have a bold and tenacious personality with vision and insight. He/she is a planner and good at making decisions. When in good health the body is muscular, athletic and well proportioned.