The Theory of 5 Elements ...

The structure, form or design of Tai Chi tally's with many other oriental philosophies and represents the functioning of Yin and Yang in relation to eight essential forces and structures of the Universe (as perceived of by Ancient Taoists). These are:

Heaven Earth Thunder Water

Mountain Wind Fire The Sacred Lake (inland water and 'the depths')

Each of these 'characteristics' are associated with particular phases of natures cycle and placed accordingly around the Yin Yang - with maximum Yang (midday) being bright/white, and maximum Yin (midnight) being dark/black.

This cycle operates on the micro or personal and macro or universal level and as such incorporates the coming and going of the seasons, the rise and fall of the tide, the 'birth' and 'death' of stars as well as the birth and death of all the other "ten thousand things".

This theory of the waxing and waning cycle of chi is the basis of the I Ching and is therefor fundamental to all associated oriental theories.