木
Mù · The Wood Element
木 Wood
Wood is the energy of growth, vision and upward movement. In the body it rules the liver — the strategist that keeps energy and emotion flowing smoothly.
The Map
What Wood connects
| Organs | Liver & Gallbladder (肝胆) |
| Flavor | Sour (酸) |
| Color | Green (青) |
| Season | Spring |
| Emotion when imbalanced | Anger (怒) |
Foods for Wood
- Leafy greens
- Sour plum
- Lemon
- Sprouts
- Vinegar
- Mung bean
- Rose tea
Simple habits
- Eat more green, leafy vegetables in spring
- Protect your liver with regular, gentle movement
- Soften tight muscles with stretching and Qi Gong
- Watch irritability — it signals stagnant Wood energy
Articles on the Wood element
The Wood Element Personality: Driven, Visionary, and Quick to Frustration
In five-element theory the Wood type is the pioneer — ambitious, decisive and quick to anger when blocked. Learn the traits, take a quick self-check, and try a simple food ritual.
Read article →Spring Liver Care: A Food-First Routine for the Wood Season
Spring belongs to Wood and the liver in five-element theory. A simple, food-first routine to match the season — greens, gentle movement, a quick self-check and a soothing recipe.
Read article →Anxiety and Liver Qi Stagnation: 7 TCM-Inspired Ways to Unwind
In five-element theory, unprocessed frustration can 'stagnate liver qi' and feel like anxiety. A self-check plus 7 gentle, non-medical habits and a calming tea.
Read article →