In the wisdom of oriental medicine, your body and emotions are connected to the 5 elemental energies of the Earth:
wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. When these energies are out of balance, you can harmonize them to feel better physically, mentally, and emotionally. In this article, find out which spa treatment is best for you based on which natural element you want to harmonize for a rejuvenating and revitalizing treat!
What are the Five Elements?
Just as the Earth finds balance in the daily rhythms of light and dark and with the changing seasons, your body is affected by different natural elements and cycles, which affect your overall physical and emotional health.
When it comes to
the Five Elements, the ultimate goal is balance. Each element, like fire and water, generates and regulates the others. A harmonious relationship with all of the natural elements is essential to our health and wellbeing.
The demands and stresses of daily life often distance us from nature, leaving little time to reveal and nurture our body’s inborn ability to regenerate and restore our vital life force or Qi energy. This disharmony within the body, over time, can result in disease.
Let this quiz determine which spa treatment is best for you. Taking time out to pamper yourself is a crucial part of your wellness. Harmonizing your body with the Five Elements is key for a balanced mind, heart and body.
The 5 Elements Quiz
1. The season now is...
a. spring
b. summer
c. late summer
d. autumn
e. winter
2. Your favorite time of year is...
a. spring
b. summer
c. late summer
d. autumn
e. winter
3. You're ready for a nap in the...
a. early morning
b. midday
c. late afternoon
d. dusk
e. nighttime
4. You hate it when the weather outside is...
a. windy
b. sunny
c. rainy
d. cold
e. dry
5. The color you are most attracted to is...
a. green
b. red
c. yellow
d. white
e. black
6. You reach for snacks that are….
a. sour
b. bitter
c. sweet
d. salty
e. spicy
7. In your group of friends, you're most likely to…
a. shout
b. laugh
c. sing
d. groan
e. cry
8. In the past week, you've been quick to feel...
a. angry
b. doubtful
c. happy
d. scared
e. depressed
9. In the past week you've been bothered by...
a. muscle cramps
b. lethargy
c. restlessness
d. hearing problems
e. sinus problems
10. Your favorite getaway is…
a. camping in a forest cabin
b. hiking in the desert
c. rock climbing in the mountains
d. rafting on a river
e. clubbing in the city
Key
If you got mostly:
A - Your element is WOOD
B - Your element is FIRE
C - Your element is EARTH
D - Your element is WATER
E - Your element is METAL
Spa treatment for WOOD - Skin Brushing
Skin brushing helps move lymph and stagnant wood energy. Natural bristle brushes or loofah sponges are exfoliating and invigorating.
Spa treatment for FIRE - Hot Stone Massage
Hot stones placed on your back or legs are wonderful and therapeutic, easing tension in tight and sore muscles.
Spa treatment for EARTH - Mud Masks
Mud contains skin nourishing minerals and also helps draw out toxins from the body.
Facial mud masks or full body mud baths are cooling and relaxing.
Spa treatment for WATER - Half Bath
Sit in a tub of warm water up to your navel until you begin to sweat to regulate body temperature,
improve circulation and
balance the water and fire elements.
Spa treatment for METAL - Magnetic Massage
Magnet therapy helps improve circulation, move Qi throughout your meridians and offers a relaxing energy massage.