The Five Elements Travel
Travel…is one of the most popular interests among people. According to recent data, travel is actually the most expensive hobby industry around the world. But how do we pick our next dream vocation, how do we choose a particular destination…what’s our expectations from a specific place or are we just crossing items off our bucket list..
Like so many people around the Earth I love to travel, explore, learn and capture memories from different destinations! So it was one of the reasons I became an airline pilot because of my deep passion for travel and incredible opportunity to explore the world. The thrill of discovering new cultures, meeting people from different backgrounds, and experiencing the world’s diverse landscapes fuels my passion for travel and inspires me every day.
But then one day, I asked myself if I was choosing these destinations merely because they were popular, because they appeared on a bucket list, or simply because they were on my flying schedule. Was it just a blindpick, a convenient choice, or was there something deeper calling me?
And luckily, yes, it was..a couple of months ago I had a clear realization, that a force greater than myself may be pulling at me to discover something different…I was literally obsessed about the Northern Lights…I felt an undeniable urge to connect with them and experience their magic.
And right there witnessing the entire universe swirling and dancing, I realized that I just needed to be in a place that could bring more clarity and a chane to reflect, and come up with a plan on what’s next. And it was definitely the perfect place to receive all of that…and it got me thinking: why was it so easy to gain that clarity…and again the answer is so effortlessly popped up in my mind, - the Northern lights, with their serene, shimmering displays, cutting across the sky in the crisp Arctic air, resonate with the metal element, bringing clarity, precision, and reflective quality.
Eastern philosophy teaches that everything is built upon five interconnected elements - Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water - each with its own distinct characteristics and vital energy.
The Five Element theory is foundational to many practices, such as acupuncture, Feng Shui, Traditional Chinese medicine, and martial arts.
The Five Elements show us how the structures and systems are connected to each other; how we are connected to our environment and the natural world; how our world is part of the greater Universe.
How often do we explore destinations through the lens of the Five elements? How often do we truly engage in “Elemental travel"? Perhaps the next time we plan a trip, we should take a moment to reflect on what we truly need - whether it's letting go, grounding, gaining clarity or finding inspiration.
So let’s explore how each element can enhance and add value to our life.
Wood Element :
brings growth, creativity, and a fresh sense of inspiration into your life.
To immerse yourself in the wood element, consider exploring new landscapes, engaging in outdoor activities, visiting lush forests and National Parks that foster a connection with nature.
Fire Element :
ignites passion, motivation, and vibrant energy in your life.
To add the Fire Element to your life, visit destinations with vibrant, warm colors, like Red rocks or pursue exciting experiences in places with volcanic activity. Embrace adventurous travel experiences, try local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Also, a vibrant sunset is an easy and accessible way to invite the Fire element into your life, no matter where you are!
Earth element :
can bring you a profound sense of security and stability. It also brings grounding, nourishment and a sense of inner balance.
To tap into the Earth Element, you can travel to places with fertile valleys with rich soil and serene mountains. A trip to a beautiful vineyard can add a grounding and nourishing earth element to your life.
The Metal Element :
brings clarity and precision. It is a perfect element to indulge in if you're confused and looking for the next step in life or not sure about the path you're on and need some guidance.
To immerse yourself in the Metal Element embrace the clarity and refinement found in crisp air of white mountainous regions, the precision of architectural marvels, and the simplicity and reflective beauty of the minimalist design.
The Water Element :
brings flow, adaptability, calmness, healing and renewal. If there’s something you want to give up to the world, perhaps your worries or a negative energy, you can let it go into the water and let it carry it away.
To invite the water element into your life, travel to any body of water, tranquil lakesides, or river valleys, where the gentle flow of water can renew your spirit. The waterfall, with its powerful cascade, carries an extra intensity that can wash away negative energy and ignite a transformative shift.