The Five Elements: The Core of TCM Philosophy
July marked the beginning of something completely new for me — my very first month as a Traditional Chinese Medicine student.
Walking into class that first day, I felt equal parts excited and unsure. I didn’t know exactly what to expect, but I did know this: something about TCM had already spoken to me before I even began, and I was ready to follow it.
One of the very first concepts we explored was the Five Elements — Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water.
At first, it felt almost too simple. These natural elements we see everywhere. But as my teacher spoke, I realised how deep and interconnected they are. They describe not just the world outside of us, but the world within us too - our energy, our emotions, our health, and how we move through the seasons of life.
Here’s what I learned in those first few weeks:
Wood is growth and forward movement - the feeling of starting something (just like I was).
Fire is a connection and a joy, a moment of warmth and passion.
Earth is a source of stability and support, being centered even when everything feels new.
Metal is letting go - releasing old ways of thinking to make space for growth.
Water is stillness and depth - the quiet confidence that comes from resting and reflecting.
I started to see these elements reflected not just in my studies but in myself. The Wood energy in me felt strong, moving forward, full of possibility, and ready to grow. And at the same time, I noticed how much I leaned on Earth and Water, too. Staying grounded and taking moments to pause when it all felt a bit overwhelming.
That first month of study reminded me that learning TCM isn’t just about memorising facts. It’s about observing, feeling, and noticing how everything is connected within me.
I know I have so much more to learn, but I already feel different. Calmer. More aware. More connected to myself and to everything around me.
If you’ve just begun something new, maybe take a moment to notice which of the Five Elements is showing up most strongly in your life right now.
— Mikkenzie