Traditional culture in plain words
Wood
Wood stands for growth and reaching outward, like a tree in spring; its directions are east and southeast, its colours green and teal.
At a glance
Feeding and restraining
Wood feeds Fire and restrains Earth.
- Wood · East · Southeast · Green, teal · Spring · Now
- Fire · South · Red, purple · Summer
- Earth · Northeast · Southwest · Beige, ochre · The turn of the seasons
- Metal · West · Northwest · Gold, white · Autumn
- Water · North · Blue, black · Winter
Show as a table
| Item | Value | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Wood | East · Southeast | Green, teal · Spring · Now |
| Fire | South | Red, purple · Summer |
| Earth | Northeast · Southwest | Beige, ochre · The turn of the seasons |
| Metal | West · Northwest | Gold, white · Autumn |
| Water | North | Blue, black · Winter |
Solid arrows show the feeding cycle; dashed arrows show the restraining cycle.
Nature and season
The nature of Wood is growth: a seed sprouts and branches spread, all with an upward, outward energy. Tradition also places spring, early morning and plants in the Wood family.
Wood pairs with spring. After Lichun (立春), the Start of Spring, the weather warms and everything stirs again — traditionally the season when Wood is at its fullest.
Traditional associations
Traditional culture links Wood with the liver and the eyes, and holds that spring is a fine time for a walk outdoors among the trees. This is a cultural association, not medical advice.
Green and teal clothes and potted plants traditionally carry Wood's liveliness; a plant in the east or southeast of the home is placed there for a sense of fresh growth.
Connect elements and four pillars with daily cultural tips. Open My Day
See also Glossary: the five elements, feeding and restraining
The five elements belong to traditional culture and are shared here for cultural interest; the links with the body are traditional sayings, not medical advice.