What element is associated with the concept of birth?

The element associated with the concept of birth is Wood. In traditional Chinese medicine and philosophy, the Wood element represents growth, vitality, and new beginnings, akin to the concept of birth. This association reflects the natural processes of life, where Wood symbolizes the rebirth of energy in spring, when life begins to flourish and branches grow. The characteristics of Wood embody expansion and creation, making it the fundamental source associated with the initiation of life.

In contrast, Fire represents transformation and energy but is more aligned with processes that follow birth, such as maturation and activity. Metal is associated with structure and reflection, often aligned with concepts of harvest and completion rather than the initiation of life. Earth serves as a stabilizing force, associated with nourishment and support, but is not directly linked to the dynamic initiation of life that Wood represents. These distinctions clarify why Wood is specifically tied to the notion of birth.