There are two cycles of the elements, which demonstrate how they work together.

The creative cycle or positive cycle is displayed here for reference

To understand these elements are one of the two most important factors in understanding feng shui. To see where and how the elements react with each other, you can begin to apply your knowledge to strengthening the elements using the positive cycle of the elements. If any specific element is too strong, you can use the destructive cycle to temper the over-active forces of nature and regain harmony.

Feng Shui Elements

As you can see from the illustration above the traditional elements vary from those you may be used to, that is because this system originated in China and was based upon the observations of students of the natural cycles.

The elements are as follows and should be viewed in circular fashion, as they create a chain of forces that work to support the next element in the cycle.   This list is a quick overview, to see the specific elements in greater depth you should look at the page on supporting elements

Wood 

wood supports fire by providing it with the fuel that it needs to exhibit its dynamic and active nature.

Fire

Fire supports earth by burning away debris and replenishing the soil with nutrients.

Fire is the key element in the fame area.

Earth

Earth gives birth to metal where it is shaped and formed. Earth controls water and is replenished by fire.   Earth is the key element in the relationships area and the knowledge area

Metal

Metal in turn gives form to water.   This concept is easily understood when you think of a metal chalice and how liquids conform to whatever the shape of the vessel.  Thus metal is formative and yang, whereas water conforms and is quite yin in nature.  Metal is the primary element which rules the helpful people area and the creativity area.

Water

Water now creates the cycle by feeding wood.   Wood is a living thing, and is usually represented by trees.   Plants of all types live and grow by absorbing water through their leaves and roots.  Water is symbolic of career and life opportunities and is the active element in the lifes path sector

Applying the constructive cycle

By understanding how the five elements in feng shui support each other, you can figure out how to strengthen an element that is weakened by the destructive cycle, or which you simply want to have a greater influence on your life.

The elements are each associated with the nine areas of the feng shui bagua (nine sectors).  These will be detailed seperately, although an example is the fame area which is ruled by fire.   While you may lack in fiery elements in your decor you may have wooden objects or plants which can be placed in this area to enhance the fire element.   Conversely if your fame area is getting you more attention than you feel comfortable with, you can tone it down by reducing the amount of the amplifying element in that sector.