Wu Xing aka The Five Element (phases)

Xing Yi is greatly connected to the idea of Wu Xing, or "The Five Element (Phases)."

In general, the Wu Xing is a traditional Chinese conceptual understanding which connects everything from the cosmos, to the chi (life energy/breath), to the function of the organs. It plays a role in many Chinese philosophies, martial arts, TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine), and Feng Shui.


The Wu Xing is at once simple and complex (more complex). It's based on five elements which are wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. These elements work in cycles where certain elements generate and overcome others.

Below is a basic diagram of the Wu Xing available online.