What does an earth element look like?

EARTH

VIDA continues the series on the 5 Element Theory basics by discussing the Earth

element today. Feel free to contact Dr. Randi directly via the VIDA Wellness website

with questions or comments.

• "The mysterious forces of the earth create moisture in the heavens and fertile soil

upon the earth; they create the flesh within the body and the stomach. They create the

yellow color, and give voice to the ability to sing, they create the mouth, the sweet

flavor, and the emotions of anxiety and worry” - The Inner Classics

The representative organs of the earth element are the spleen, stomach and pancreas.

In TCM these organs are chiefly responsible for overall digestive function, distribution of

foods and nutrients and sugar metabolism. This element is one of the main Qi creating

systems in the body and is directly responsible for ones overall energetic nature. This

element also rules the flesh and muscles and when in good health this is the strongest

part of the body.

When the earth element is in balance a person would be described as hard working,

practical, strong, active, and responsible. They have endurance, good appetites and

digestion. This element tends to be orderly and careful, with a vivid imagination and

they may excel at an art form. When your earth element is out of balance you may have

a stuck feeling (literally or emotionally), nausea, weak digestion, bloating, loose stool,

lazy feelings, blood sugar imbalance, and possible weight issues.

The average earth constitution person may be shorter and have thick thighs and mid

section. They tend to have a round and smiley face with a broad jaw. There complexion

may be darkish and skin may be slightly oily. The lips and mouth are often the

predominate feature of the face. This person is calm, generous and is the peace

keeper who enjoys sharing their love through food. They walk without lifting their feet

very high and their strength is in their limbs and muscles. 7am to 11am is the time of

day when the earth element is most active and functioning at its best. This is the time of

day when, if in balance, one should have the most energy and strongest digestive

abilities.

Indian summer is the time of year related to the earth element. This is a short period of

time during the transition between the expansion and growth of summer into the cool

and inward time of fall. This element is also strongest during the equinoxes and two

solstices as these are pivotal pauses in the light patterns we experience from the sun.

During these times foods should be prepared simply and with minimal spices.

Foods to Consume: ancient grains, corn, carrots, cabbage, chick peas, squash,

potatoes, string beans, yams, tofu, sweet potatoes, rice, chestnuts, apricots and

cantaloupe.

Foods to Avoid: large meals, late night eating, meals with too many ingredients,

processed sweeteners, chemically treated food, excessive cold or raw foods, citrus,

excessive dairy, to many cooling greens, and deep fried or greasy foods.

The information in this posting is derived from a lecture given by Dr. Randi. A general

overview of the 5 Elements can be found at http://www.acupuncturetoday.com . You

may also review the holistic rehab treatment services VIDA Wellness offers for full body

organic detox/overhaul and addiction recovery in Playa Negra/Tamarindo, Costa Rica.

Pura Vida!