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Image by Maxim Tajer

The Fire Element

INSOMNIA - AGGITATION - DEPRESSION

In second in the cycle of the seasons, the preceding element Wood (spring) prepares the way for the full energy of Fire (summer). Wood provides the energy to get the "fire" going.

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This is the ultimate in Yang energy.  A time were we are full of energy, the sun feeds our bodies with abundant light and we become more cheerful, happier and content. 

Once the fire has burned out it turns to Earth creating the cycle in the Shen process... the Earth element.

Image by Heather Green

ORGAN

Heart and Small Intestine

The Heart, ‘The Supreme Controller’, the Small Intestine, ‘The Separator of the Pure from the Impure’.  The heart circulates blood that nourishes the small intestine, while the small intestine absorbs nutrients that fuel the heart.

Season

Summer

Colour

Red

Representing heat and growth. Outward and expansive energy and abundance of activity.  A time to use the energy we have stored over the Winter and generated in springtime.

The colour requires little explanation and is generally universally understood.  Our hearts create passion, energy and power.  The fire element is red by the very nature of the element.

Taste

Bitter

In the excess of heat in the fire element bitter foods are used as a cooling aid to the body.  The bitter taste is said to stimulate the upward movement of Qi to the chest and Heart, guiding energy to the organs associated with Fire.

Signs of Fire Imbalance in TCM

Physical Symptoms of Heart Imbalance

  • Heart Problems

  • Chest pain

  • Excessive sweating

  • Circulation problems​

Emotional Symptoms of Heart Imbalance

  • Anxiety

  • Mania

  • Depression

  • Overexcitement

  • Apathy

How Does Tai Chi and Qigong Help Fire Imbalances

Our heart is fiery in nature and sometimes our spirit requires cooling and dispersing. The mediating effects of qigong requires stillness and power of the water element, nourishing the fire with calmness and a sense of peace and tranquillity. When our mind becomes clear and calm it flows into the body allowing us to process any worries that would in any case cause us suffering.

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