Taoist theories use symbols to describe phenomena of reality. Therefore, each of the five elements represents an aspect of a dynamic process, the stages of change of a process. In this sense, wood is not only the actual wood of a tree in the sense of substance, but describes the character, the dynamic state, the element's elemental force. Wood - rising, development (of an action), impulse, expansion, departure. Fire - embodiment, definition, action, dynamic phase, design Earth - change, transformation, transmutation, change, conversion Metal - sinking, contracting, decreasing Water - contemplation, rest, (re)contemplation, observation, reflection. According to the "Doctrine of the Five Elements", the basic materials of the material world are wood, fire, earth, metal and water. All material things are made of a single or a combination of the five elements, as these are the basic ingredients. All five elements are equally important and should form a balance while in constant motion and cyclical changes (phases). Taoism theories use symbols to describe phenomens of reality, hence each of the Five Elements represent an aspect of a dynamic process, a processe's phases of change. In this sense, Wood is not only the actual wood of a tree as defined by the substance, but describes the character, the dynamic state, the elemental force of the element. Wood - rising, development (of an action), impulse, expansion, decampment Fire - embodiement, definition, action, dynamic phase, design Earth - alteration, transformation, transmutation, change, conversion Metal - sinking, contraction, declining Water - contemplation, calmness, (re-)consideration, observation, reflection The basic substances of the material world according to the 'Theory of the Five Elements' are Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. All material things are made of a single or a combination of the Five Elements, since these are the fundamental components. All Five Elements are equally important and should form a balance, while being in constant move and cyclical change (phases).

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Feng Shui Representing 5 Elements by Josef Johann Michel. Available as an art print on canvas, photo paper, watercolor board, uncoated paper or Japanese paper.
encaustic · feng shui · 5 element · five elements