Five Element Acupuncture
Five-Element Acupuncture is likened to maintaining a house. Just as a home requires regular attention to its foundation, structure, and internal systems to remain stable and functional, our bodies also depend on care and balance to thrive.
Five-Element Acupuncture: Philosophy
If one part of a house, such as the roof or plumbing, is neglected, it can lead to wider issues that affect the entire structure. Similarly, in the human body, symptoms are often signs of deeper imbalances within the system.
Five-Element Acupuncture works by identifying and addressing these root causes, much like repairing the underlying issues in a home rather than just patching over surface problems. This approach ensures that the “house”—your body—remains resilient, harmonious, and capable of self-healing.
When any one of the elements is out of balance, it can affect the entire cycle, causing disruptions in both the body’s systems and emotional states. Just like a house with faulty plumbing or a damaged foundation, symptoms may appear in seemingly unrelated areas. Five-Element Acupuncture aims to address the root causes of these imbalances rather than just treating the surface symptoms.
In practice, a Five-Element Acupuncturist assesses which element is out of balance and then works to restore harmony between them, promoting self-healing and long-term health. This approach encourages the body to return to a state of equilibrium, much like fixing a home's underlying problems to ensure its lasting stability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Acupuncture is a time-honoured healing practice rooted in ancient Chinese medicine. It involves the insertion of fine, sterile needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and promote natural healing. This technique aims to restore balance and alleviate various health concerns.
Many are concerned about potential discomfort during acupuncture. Rest assured, the needles used are exceptionally thin, often compared to a human hair. Most patients report minimal to no pain, sometimes experiencing a slight tingling or warmth at the insertion points. The process is generally relaxing, and any sensations typically subside quickly.
Acupuncture operates on the principle of balancing the body’s vital energy, known as Qi. By stimulating specific points, it encourages the body’s natural healing processes, potentially influencing various physiological systems to improve health and well-being.
Acupuncture is versatile and can address a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain, stress, digestive issues, and more. It’s best to consult with a qualified acupuncturist to determine how acupuncture can support your specific health needs.
When performed by a licensed and trained professional, acupuncture is generally safe. The use of sterile, single-use needles and adherence to proper techniques minimize risks. It’s essential to ensure your practitioner is certified and follows appropriate safety protocols.
The number of treatments varies depending on the individual and the condition being addressed. Some may experience relief after a single session, while others might require a series of treatments to achieve optimal results. Typically, you will have a couple of sessions weekly to kick start the whole process, after that - treatment is usually then fanned out to greater intervals, once. month, once every six weeks etc. A developed a personalised treatment plan tailored to your needs. Long term patients usually come once per season for maintenance and prevention.
During a session, firstly you’ll typically lie comfortably as your pulse will be taken - the pulse gives us more information on how best to treat you. After this, acupuncture points will be marked up. Once marked, each point firstly usually requires the use of heating up a herb (called Moxa) on the point to help stimulate the energy prior to needling.
Once that has been carried out, the needling takes place. In this tradition (Five-Element acupuncture), the needles are not left in. The needle is placed on the skin, then slowly is inserted... The needle then travels down to the acupuncture point - the patient will feel a slight ache - at which point the needle is turned 180 degrees clockwise to strengthen the function of the point. The needle then come out of the patient and is disposed of.
In Five-Element acupuncture, about half a dozen points are usually chosen with the pulse read after each needle to measure the progress.
Let's hope so! We'd like to see the symptoms that were the main complaint subside after a suitable amount of treatment, plus other benefits where we notice the body working more efficiently. On the more 'negative' side - side effects are rare but may include mild soreness or slight bruising at the needle sites. These effects are usually short-lived.
It’s advisable to be well hydrated prior to and after a treatment, wear loose-fitting clothing to allow easy access to acupuncture points. Arriving a few minutes early can help you begin your session in a relaxed state.
Yes, acupuncture often complements other forms of treatment. It’s important to inform your healthcare providers about all therapies you’re receiving to ensure coordinated and effective care.
The Elements
The Five Elements
According to ancient Chinese philosophy, the entire universe can be observed and experienced through the five elements as found in nature; Wood, Water, Fire, Earth and Metal.
In humankind we can observe these elements manifesting in many different ways: for example – five pairings of organs, five distinct emotions, sounds, smells and colours. Each organ of the body corresponds to one of the elements, which in turn corresponds to one of the seasons of the year. The elements are the five distinct phases through which all things pass from their beginning to their end.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis involves looking at a patient’s constitutional & emotional make-up; their strengths and weaknesses. At the initial consultation a patient will be asked about their main complaint and to give a full medical history. It is also important to mention at this point that we always have a good number of patients who present no particular health problems but are undertaking treatment to maintain their good health, and as preventative medicine.
A common question asked is how long should a patient expect to be receiving treatment? A typical course of treatment would be a weekly appointment for four weeks, progressing to fortnightly and then proceeding to longer intervals as necessary. Obviously, individual cases vary, and some conditions may take longer to treat, and this will be explained at diagnosis.
The actual treatment plan will be based around each individual’s needs, taking into consideration age, medical symptoms, general constitution and life circumstances. The treatment journey takes the patient from pathology to good health and through to accessing their full potential.
A Verified Patient
Dr Kathiuska Kriedt
A Verified Patient
The Wood Element
The Wood element is the driving force of growth, vision, and transformation. Aligned with spring, it governs the Liver and Gallbladder, which provide the blueprint for planning and decision-making while ensuring the smooth flow of energy throughout the body. When in balance, Wood offers clarity, direction, and the ability to adapt to challenges. When out of balance, it may lead to frustration, indecision, or stagnation. Acupuncture that supports the Wood element restores flexibility and creativity, allowing for growth and the realization of potential. Film extract from Yellow Path
The Fire Element
The Fire element represents the spark of life, joy, and connection that lights up our world. Linked to summer, it governs the Heart, Small Intestine, Pericardium, and Triple Burner, which oversee communication, emotional warmth, and the circulation of energy. When balanced, Fire brings joy, clarity, and the ability to connect deeply with others. When out of balance, it can result in restlessness, loneliness, or emotional overwhelm. Acupuncture treatments for the Fire element restore harmony, rekindling joy, emotional expression, and the capacity for meaningful connection. Film extract from Yellow Path
The Earth Element
The Earth element is the source of nourishment and stability, providing the foundation on which life depends. Associated with late summer, it governs the Spleen and Stomach, which are responsible for digestion, transformation, and the nurturing of body and spirit. Balanced Earth fosters care, empathy, and a sense of groundedness, while imbalances can lead to worry, overthinking, or a feeling of being uncentered. Acupuncture that supports the Earth element helps cultivate inner peace, stability, and the ability to give and receive care with ease. Film extract from Yellow Path
The Metal Element
The Metal element reflects the ability to distill life’s experiences into wisdom, structure, and purpose. Associated with autumn, it governs the Lungs and Large Intestine, which facilitate taking in what is essential and releasing what is no longer needed. Balanced Metal brings clarity, self-worth, and inspiration. When out of balance, it can result in grief, rigidity, or a loss of direction. Acupuncture treatments for the Metal element help restore balance, clear emotional and physical blockages, and foster a renewed sense of purpose and connection. Film extract from Yellow Path
The Water Element
The Water element embodies the deep, still reservoir of potential and the relentless flow of life itself. Associated with winter, it reflects a time of rest and restoration, preparing for renewal and growth. Water governs the Kidneys and Bladder, which hold and regulate the body’s essence and vitality. When balanced, the Water element inspires wisdom, willpower, and a calm sense of purpose. If out of balance, it can manifest as fear, insecurity, or exhaustion. Acupuncture treatments focused on the Water element restore harmony, revitalising both body and spirit, and help unlock the strength and courage needed to navigate life’s challenges. Film extract from Yellow Path
"Kite Clinic is one of the foremost exponents of the more ancient schools of Five Element acupuncture"
The Guardian
The Nature of Imbalance
The nature of ‘Imbalance’. The end of this film often represents how the Five Elements sit within a patient when they first come for treatment.
Each colour here represents a coupling of organs. You can see from this clip how all organs/elements are completely dependent on each other for good health. Watch how when our system is compromised - the whole system wobbles and we become sick.
The idea behind treatment is to diagnose which element is the cause to the system breaking down. Then we treat this cause and over time, we see our patients come to us with the Five Elements in a more balanced state - the return journey to health" - Johnny Childs.
Illustration from Yellow Path
