What is The Five Transformations Theory
We continue our study of Yin and Yang forces with introduction to yet another, even more ancient theory dating back some 5,000 years. It is known as the Five Transformations or Five Elements Theory.
The Five Transformations theory additionally clarifies the energetic movements of yin and yang forces in the Universe, and Nature, of course. Besides gathering and dispersing, there are also flowing, rising, expanding, settling, and solidifying energy. Each energetic flow is also associated with commonly known earth elements: water, tree, fire, soil, and metal.
The Role of The Five Transformations in Macrobiotics
In macrobiotic nutrition the Five Transformations theory is used to further classify energetic properties of grains, vegetables, beans, ect. Understanding individual energetic food properties helps us create daily balance in accordance to the levels of activity, our climate, and changing seasons.
The study of Five Transformations is vast and worth exploring as it offers explanations about all phenomenon represented in the Nature. From understanding how to prepare balanced meals to creating harmony in relationships and observing changes in our bodies, Five Transformations can be applied to all aspects of our lives.
The Five Transformations & Macrobiotic Nutrition
FIRE
Taste: Bitter
Grain: Corn, Polenta, Oats, Amarath
Vegetables: Bitter Greens / Leafy Greens
Foods: Chinese Cabbage, Dandelion, Spices, Herbs, Garlic, Watercress, Bock choy, Lentils
Season / Color: Summer / Red
Energy direction: Outward
Cooking Method: Stir fry, Dry Roasting
SOIL
Taste: Sweet
Grain: Millet, Sweet Rice, Mochi
Vegetables: Round
Other Foods: Onions, Carrots, Cabbage, Squash, Parsnip, Sweeteners, Seasonal Fruit
Season / Color: Early Autumn / Orange
Energy direction: Downward
Cooking Method: Boiling
METAL
Taste: Sharp or Pungent
Grain: Rice
Vegetables: Pungent
Other Foods: Pungent Roots, Garlic, Ginger, Daikon, Red Radish, Fish, Mustard, Onion
Season / Color: Late Autumn/White
Energy Direction: Inward
Cooking Method: Pressure Cooking/Baking
WATER
Taste: Salty
Grain: Buckwheat
Vegetables: Roots
Other Foods: Beans, Sea Vegetables, Shoyu, Miso, White Fish
Season / Color: Winter / Blue, Black, Deep Purple
Energy Direction: Floating
Cooking Method: Pickling
TREE
Taste: Sour
Grain: Wheat, Barley, Basmati Rice
Vegetables: Small Leaves
Other Foods: Leeks, Sprouts, Parsley, Shiitake Mushrooms, Lemons, Sauerkraut, Vinegars
Season / Color: Spring / Green
Energy direction: Upward
Cooking Method: Steaming