Five Element Body Types

In traditional Chinese medicine, we abide by the five element theory; that everything inside and outside of the body can be categorized into one of the five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. When you are born, factors including your upbringing, lifestyle, and genetics help shape your physical, mental, and emotional characteristics. These characteristics form your body's constitution, which can also be categorized into one of the five natural elements. ​

Below is a detailed description of each elemental body and personality type, including a few health tips to ensure a balanced primary element. But don't worry if you find you don't fit a description perfectly - it is not necessary to have all of the characteristics of a certain element. It is also common to have two or even three primary elements that shape your body's constitution. ​

WOOD
The wood type person is characterized by the three longs: long fingers, long face, and a long body trunk/upper body. This person is shaped like a tree. They are tall and lean with a long face; wide at the top with broad shoulders and a narrow waist. The wood-type person is prone to anger and can have a solemn expression on their face more often than not. They have short and blunt speech and walk heavily, dropping each foot loudly. Someone who is highly driven and determined is typically more of a wood type. These type A people work great under pressure but are easily stressed out. They often suffer from PMS symptoms, high blood pressure, and tight muscles and headaches. Some health tips include incorporating stress relief techniques and stretching into your daily life like yoga and tai chi. The wood element belongs to the liver, so cleanses that rid the body of toxins can be highly beneficial to these types of people. It is also important to avoid alcohol.

FIRE
A fire body constitution is pointy: a pointy nose, a pointy chin, and a pointy top of the head. They are pointy on the top, narrow at the hips, and round at the center. Their face is red, round, and full and their hair is thin. Although they have a more plump body, their walking pace is quick and light, their body swaying slightly from side to side. The fire personality type is passionate, energetic, and dramatic. They love to talk and they are very eloquent and expressive. When in balance, fire type people are friendly, intimate, and can create connections with people very easily. However when their fire element is out of balance, they frequently suffer from insomnia, anxiety, and palpitations. They are prone to acne, skin rashes, and circulatory problems, since the fire element relates to the heart organ. Anything that helps ground the fire type person will be extremely beneficial, whether it be long walks or writing in a journal. Fire types respond well to routine and regularity, especially with sleeping and eating. Diet wise, it would be ideal to stay away from spicy food and include more bitter and cooling foods in the diet.

EARTH
An earth body type is short, with a short body, neck, and fingers. The earth-type person has a square face with big ears and a bulbous nose. Movements are more on the clumsy side while the demeanor is honest and sincere. Their complexion may have a slight yellowish tinge and their gait is heavy, solid, and loud. The voice is most likely loud as well. The personality of the earth type is grounded, practical, and stable. They are drawn to harmony and nourishing connections between themselves and others. It is common for earth people to be gardeners, cooks, knitters, or mothers. In balance they are compassionate and thoughtful. When out of balance, their thoughts can become obsessive and are prone to worry. They may develop codependent relationships and give so much of themselves that they become depleted and burnt out. Therefore it is important for the earth type to learn how to say "no", and give plenty of time to care for themselves (which they may forget to do!). The earth element is connected to the spleen and digestive system, so these type of people may develop gut problems and indigestion. Fatigue, loose stools, and bloating are very common. They may also have food allergies, crave sweets, and gain weight easily. Earth people should try to calm their thoughts and spend more time in nature. Eating foods that are easily digestible (such as soups) and staying away from sweets would be beneficial as well.

METAL
A metal type person is thin: thin lips, thin eyelids, and thin skin on the backs of the hands. The face is well proportioned with a rectangular shaped head, a pointy chin, and well defined and distributed features. Their body is slim with graceful and lively steps. A metal type face is typically pale or with a white tinge. They are good with words and are very persuasive while the voice is bright and clear. The personality type of the metal person is loyal, brave, and righteous. They are academically intelligent and are great at solving problems. With fast metabolisms, keeping a slim figure is hardly ever a problem. Metal is associated with the lung organ, therefore respiratory problems like asthma are likely to occur, along with skin problems such as eczema or psoriasis. Those with a metal personality are prone to depression and may have problems with intimacy and connecting with people. Regular, aerobic exercise can be good to strengthen the lungs in metal type constitutions. Any practice including letting go of past emotions through journaling or therapy is highly beneficial. Breathing meditations and avoiding junk food will also benefit the metal type person.

WATER
Those with a water body constitution have thick eyelids, a thick jaw, and thick skin on the backs of the hands. Their face is large, round, and wider at the base, often with a double chin. They have thick eyebrows, thick hair, and big eyes. Typically more on the chubby side, the water type person walks slowly with their feet dragging on the ground. Their voice is low, relaxed, and throaty. The water type person tends to go with the flow. They are wise, have a strong will, and are highly introspective. With strong determination, they are self confident and quiet when in balance. When out of balance they can be prone to edema, urinary tract infections, and joint problems, such as knee and back pain. The water type person can often be timid, fearful, and indecisive. In order to maintain health, it is important for the water type constitution to drink plenty of fluids, avoid cold food, and be sure to maintain close social connections with people.