Five Element Theory

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Source: http://kaleidoscope.cultural-china.com
The elements utilized in Five Element- based Shiatsu practice are Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water.  As in a fingerprint, we each possess a unique combination of these energies, causing us to think, feel, and behave in certain ways.  This affects us in both physical and psychological realms.  One of the goals of Shiatsu is to balance these energies so that one does not 'overly' support or control another, promoting a more harmonious relationship with ourselves and our environment.