Integrating Reflexology and Five-Element Theory

"The element fire is seen as providing the energy governing the heart and small intestine. In addition, there are two other systems linked to the fire element, namely circulation/pericardium, which protects and regulates the blood flow, heat and nourishment throughout the body; the other system is termed the 'three heater', 'triple warmer' or 'three burners' and it acts to maintain proper temperature and warmth in the three cavities - respiration, digestion and elimination. In many Western translations, the three heater is described as the endocrine meridian as each of the three cavities also relates to hormonal glands and the functions thereof. Fire is light and warmth and its function in the body is not only to maintain heat but also to give warmth to others. The fire reflects the zest for life, the spark and vitality in body and mind. To be on fire is to be full of excitement about life. The fire imitates the quality of the food that has become Chi in the body; excess or lack of this can be expressed by many symptoms expressed, such as hot painful joints, fever, hot flashes, inflammations, heart burn and digestive problems, sexual coldness, lack of emotional warmth to other human beings (even those who are close), poor circulation of the blood that makes the extremities very cold, varicose veins and hemorrhoids. The two fire functions, circulation and heating, are important to the overall harmony of the body." (Reflexology: The Five Elements and Their 12 Meridians: A Unique Approach by Inge Dougans, 2005, p. 114)