The 5 Transformation stages

It was by observing nature that the ancient thinkers saw that all things continually pass through alternating stages of contracting & expanding.Within this universal process they determined five standard phases or stages of transformation:

1 ascending , rapidly expanding, or tree/wood nature

2 very expanded, highly activated free energy as fire

3 gathering , condensing, downward and inward moving energy, or soil/earth nature

4 consolidated, materialized energy, or metal energy

5 slowly dissolving, floating energy like a borderline between strong consolidated and strong expansion.

Viewing the complete cycle of the five stages as one continuous process you can see that this is simply a more detailed view of Yin and Yang with Soil and Metal representing the phase of contraction and water through fire the expanding phase.

Element SOIL/Earth

The energetics and properties represented in Soil Stage are things settling down from the previous fire stage. Its nature is more downward and grounding. It represents the afternoon and late summer and is associated with humid weather.It bears the quality of accomplishment through effort. They are represented by Saturn compared to Western Astrology.

SOIL/Earth energies 2,5,8

In General:

All individuals of three soil natures are of a balanced, centered & stabilized character.They are usually grounded, earth, practical and capable of nurturing and supporting others. In Chinese medicine the element soil controls & strengthens the function of stomach, spleen and pancreas.

2 Soil: To serve others

In the I Ching the Trigram of 2 soil represents the Mother & Earth, the most yin or feminine of all. This full force of Earth brings all maternal qualities along like receptiveness, helpfulness, supportivenss , diplomacy and caring.

The 2 soil individual tries to provide a far & open chance for everybody. Their qualities reveal best when they are at service to others.2 Soil is known for their steadiness and reliability. They are not aggressive by nature and have a strong patient nature. They are sociable and public-spirited and make excellent teachers or organizers.

They need to be within a group to avoid loosing direction and spirit.

ME TIME is a must. 2 Soil Natures need to re-create their own energy.

5 Soil: Beginning & end of a cycle

The 5 Soil has qualities drawn from all eight energies, as it is in the center of this system of Astrology.The unique quality of these individuals is that they relate to and draw from all other energies around. They are often the center of the family or situation. It is said that the 5 individuals bring the quality of 2 and 8 to their character.These individuals break new ground easily, take the heat where others would fade and is not afraid in new projects and ideas.

5 Individuals are very determined, sometimes even bold & aggressive and can bring about enormous change through reinvention, or the destruction of old systems and patterns. People often look to them for leadership and guidance.5 Soil people are very resilient and centered and cannot be held back as they explore. The world is as if they own it.

Share your worries , rather than slip into lethargy or depression ! Do not get burnt out.

8 Soil: Contemplation

The 8 Soil nature in the I Ching represents the Mountain and the Youngest son.

8 Individuals have the benefit of the accumulated experience of everybody’s trail and tribulations. Therefore he has more opportunity for reflection and expression through a more intellectual approach. The image of the mountain as that of a strong, immovable exterior with a cooler, more withdrawn interior. 8 Soil represent Individuals with a quiet, reflective nature paving the way to new growth.They move slowly and persistently with enormous reserves of energy.8 Soil Individuals have a strong sense of what is just & right. This quality can bring out change and revolution in peoples´life. Your hidden strength can be of enormous help to all human kind.

Be aware of not letting their strong sense of justice and fairness turn into self-righteousness. Keeping body flexible and adaptable.