JOHNNY CHILDS
AT KITE CLINIC
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.
The Five-Elements
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.
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.
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.
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.
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, revitalizing both body and spirit, and help unlock the strength and courage needed to navigate life’s challenges.
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.
The actual treatment plan will then 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.
"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.
the nature of imbalance
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.
Frequently asked questions
FAQ's 'Five-Element acupuncture and TCM
Frequently asked questions comparing Five-Element Acupuncture with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Acupuncture,