What is the water element?

WATER

VIDA completes the series on the 5 Element Theory basics by discussing the Water

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

with questions or comments.

• "The forces of winter create cold in heaven and water on earth. They create the

kidney organ and the bones within the body, the emotion fear, and the ability to make a

groaning sound." The Inner Classics

The representative organs of the water element are the kidneys and urinary bladder.

The kidney and bladder are responsible for excreting fluids and unwanted elements

from the body. In TCM the kidneys are seen as the source of primordial Qi, essence or

Jing. This is where the fire and water reside together in harmony to create balanced and

healthy sexual energy and overall zest for life. It is also believed that our essence and

genetic information that is passed on to future generations comes from our kidneys and

their energy.

This element rules the low back and knees and is also associated with bone health.

When the water element is out of balance one can expect to have such ailments as

chronic stiff and sore low back, weakness in the knees, low libido, low energy, chronic

bladder infections, bone diseases and developmental delays.

Winter is the time of year that correlates with the water element. During this time things

are at their slowest and most retracted. Winter is the most yin time of year and perfect

for rest and reflection. The flavors of this element are salty and bitter which help to

create a more centered feeling. In general food should be cooked longer and at a lower

temperature.

Foods to Consume: hearty soups and stews, ancient grains, roasted nuts, seaweed,

dark beans and winter greens should be on the menu. Other food options are lettuce,

dark greens, asparagus, alfalfa, carrot top, oats and quinoa.

• "Small and regular amounts of bitter foods in the winter nurture deep inner

experiences and joy in the heart" Paul Pitchford

Foods to Avoid: alcohol, deep-fried foods, cooking with canola, corn, sunflower or

safflower oil, refined sugars, hot spices, and large evening meals.

The time of day for the water element is 3pm - 7pm. This is the perfect time for peaceful

meditation or restorative yoga. Generally, a typical water element person tends to have

a rounded face and body with soft light skin. On average they have a longer than

normal spine, large ear lobes and lengthy fingers. If the element is in balance digestion

should be their strength. These people love to flow and move with life, they are

sympathetic, loyal and good negotiators. They are aware, sensitive and sometimes

psychic.

Common Imbalances: chronic low back pain, weak knees, ringing in the ears, hearing

problems, low libido, chronic urinary tract infections, edema, night time urination, kidney

infections or disease.

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, Costa Rica. Feel free to

contact Dr. Randi directly via the VIDA website with questions or comments. Pura Vida!