CULTURE | THE ELEMENT
STAY GROUNDED :
The Earth Element
Earth is the planet we call home . But earth doesn ’ t necessarily always represent the physical planet , but also that part of us which is stable , solid and dependable . Earth is the realm of abundance , prosperity and wealth . It is a personality trait and a vital element .
Text Shreya Acharya
In the Chinese philosophy of wu xing , earth is the changing point of the matter . As the third phase of wu xing , the pause between the rising elements of wood and fire , and the descending elements of metal and water , is the energy of earth .
Stability is the best way to describe the element . Like a mother , earth feeds the child , provides compassion and care , and engenders feelings of safety and protection . The earth element signifies a space to pause , soak in the moment , and prepare for growth .
Earth is a balance of both yin and yang . Its motion is inward and centring , and its energy is stabilising and conserving . It is associated with the colour yellow and the planet Saturn , and it lies at the centre of the compass in the Chinese cosmos . It is associated with the turn of each of the four seasons and with damp weather . It governs the spleen , stomach , mouth and muscles . Its negative emotion is anxiety and its positive emotion is empathy .
Earth represents traits of sensations , patience , stability , strength , health , grounding and centring of energies , promoting peace , fertility , money , business success , stability , warmth , comfort , and physical labour .
The Earth Element in Feng Shui
As a rule , earth is most welcomed in the feng shui areas of the southwest , northeast , west , northwest , and centre . It is best to express it subtly , with visually pleasing and aesthetically appropriate items that go well with your home or office decor .
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