Traditional Chinese Medicine's Elemental Path to Wellness

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views beauty as an outward manifestation of inner balance and harmony within the body. In TCM, the concept of beauty is deeply intertwined with the Five Elements—Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water—and the balance among these elements is believed to reflect in one's appearance. A balanced diet consisting of foods aligned with these elements is believed to maintain the body's equilibrium, supporting overall health and beauty.

Pictured: Marie Reynolds, founder of Marie Reynolds London.

But, knowing what to eat and when is not an easy task if you’re not an expert in TCM—this is where skincare and wellness guru, Marie Reynolds, comes in. With over 35 years experience working in the skincare and wellness industries, Marie’s goal has been to demystify TCM and make its benefits accessible to all. She has become most well known for her skincare and holistic health brand, Marie Reynolds London, which aims to help improve clients’ skin and gut health, hormonal imbalances, immunity, and even cognitive function.

Knowing that some of her clients dislike taking supplements, but still seek that health boost, Marie had the innovative idea to incorporate her brand of supplements into meals. Working with Chef Adam Hardiman of the infamous Madame Pig, they crafted delicious recipes that embrace the power of her supplements and their root in the philosophy of the Five Elements.

The culmination of this work is Eating with the Elements, a collection of recipes that will not only nourish your body and soul, but also give you a comprehensive overview of TCM, the Five Elements, and how they work with your body to foster beauty inside and out.

Eating with the Elements by Marie Reynolds is available both in paperback and digital download on her website.

Marie Reynolds' vision extends beyond individuals; she sees a potential for spas and salons to benefit from TCM's principles. By feeling empowered in their knowledge of TCM and its principles, they can offer specialized treatments and dietary consultations. One may recommend specific foods and supplements aligned with a client's elemental imbalance, fostering external beauty and inner vitality and balance. Here is just a brief overview of how the Five Elements, and how they can do just that:

Wood (Liver and Gallbladder): The Wood element corresponds to spring and represents growth and renewal. Foods that support this element include leafy greens, sprouts, and sour foods like vinegar. The liver, associated with this element, benefits from detoxifying foods such as artichokes and dandelion greens to promote clear skin.

Fire (Heart and Small Intestine): Fire embodies summer and passion. Red-colored foods like berries, tomatoes, and peppers are thought to support the Fire element, nurturing the heart and circulation. Cooling foods like cucumber and watermelon can help balance excessive Fire energy, preventing skin inflammation.

Earth (Spleen and Stomach): The Earth element is linked to late summer and nurturing stability. Whole grains, root vegetables, and legumes support digestion and nourish the Spleen and Stomach, promoting healthy, radiant skin from within.

Metal (Lungs and Large Intestine): Metal is associated with autumn and clarity. Foods that support the Metal element include white-colored foods like cauliflower, garlic, and pears, benefiting the lungs and aiding in detoxification.

Water (Kidneys and Bladder): Representing winter and the source of life, Water element foods like black beans, seaweed, and miso soup support the kidneys and bladder, promoting hydration and moisture in the skin.

Overall, TCM emphasizes that consuming a variety of foods representing each element is crucial for maintaining harmony within the body—we have seen how this can reflect on one's skin, hair, and overall appearance. Marie's book, Eating with the Elements, empowers spas and salons to put this powerful philosophy to use, offering a gateway into this holistic world of nourishment and well-being.