Five Element Series: Fire
An Into to the Fire Element
The fire element is associated with warmth, energy, transformation, and illumination. Fire provides the warmth necessary for physiological processes in the body to take place and also illuminates our life to bring more mental clarity . The fire element is associated with the heart, pericardium, small intestine and san jiao meridians.
Fire Within us: Emotionally, Spiritually, and Physically
Fire governs our ability to connect and communicate. It is strongly correlated to the heart organ, which in TCM stores the spirit or shen. The shen enables people to radiate outwards, and can be observed by a sparkle in their eye or the vitality / alertness they may present with. When the fire element is in balance our shen remains calm and settled which allows us to experience mental clarity and emotional well being.
Balanced Fire Element
You feel excitement around pursuing your passions and goals
You have a zest for life that others are attracted to
You can give and receive love with appropriate amount of emotional closeness
You have healthy boundaries in relationships
You have the inner confidence and self worth to cope well with rejection
You are able to express your needs and desires with clarity and without dominating others
Imbalanced Fire Element
You tend to be overly open, letting people in too easily and wearing your heart on your sleeve
Alternatively, you may tend to isolate and withdraw
You tend to lack stability in your emotions and are prone to mood swings
You put on a happy face but hide your trule feelings
You enjoy being the center of attention, seeking the approval of others
You struggle with rejection in experiences where others don’t give or receive the love and appreciation you are looking for
Summer: The Fire Season
The fire element is associated with summer. It is associated with transformation, renewal, and the spark of life. The element is a symbol of the suns powerful energy which sustains life and ignites inner passions. It is a time of abundance and fruition. Fire often plays a role in agricultural rituals and festivals across cultures. A bonfire is often created during celebrations to signify cleansing, purification, and a fresh start. It is a time to embrace passion, creativity, and transformation into our lives.