# Introduction The Wuxing are the five agents, states of existence that cosmic energy temporarily adapts as it flows along one of the two paths. The five agents are: Huo, Shui, Mu, Jin, and Tu. While they have associated elements, these are simply representational descriptions and are not wholly encompassing of an agent's abstract nature. The agents are just as likely to be balanced with Yin and Yang as they are to be imbalanced. When agents are balanced, they tend to encompass all the aspects mentioned in their section; but when they are imbalanced, they tend to favor one dao over the other. # Huo The agent of fire burns with passion and intensity, lending itself to sweltering expansion. Yinhuo usually marks chaotic and violent internal change; while Yanghuo holds aggressive energy dangerous to its surroundings. Huo is typically depicted as the color red. # Shui The agent of water rules retreat, contraction, and intelligence. Yinshui is typically a moment of healing and recovery, while Yangshui signals a repulsion from external stimuli and an icy facade or exterior. Shui is typically represented by the color black. # Mu The agent of wind and wood breathes growth and vitality. It is often associated with idealism, spontaneity and curiosity. Yinmu speaks to internal progress and additional complexity. Yangmu usually brings about a change of ability or interaction with the external world. Mu is typically represented by the color green. # Jin Jin is the agent of metal and electricity. Jinyin heralds self-defense, intuition, and wisdom. Jinyang is an energy of harvesting and fortification. Jin is represented by the color white. # Tu Tu is the agent of earth and soil. This transitional stability delivers acceptance, simplicity, and honesty to the dao of Yin and an aspect of leveling and potentiality to the dao of Yang. Tu is usually depicted by the color yellow. # The Taiji Dao The Taiji Dao reflect the relationships between any two agents. These transition between the agents in these cycles is important in understanding them conceptually. ## Yin Yin travels through the agents in a cycle of generation and birth. After Huo burns itself through, Tu is left as a byproduct. Tu eventually bears fruit, uncovering itself to generate Jin. Jin is a catalyst and vessel, enabling the agent of Shui to collect and gather itself. Shui in turn nourishes Mu, materializing the perfect fuel to bring Huo into existence. ## Yang Yang travels through the agents in a cycle of discipline and strife. Mu is a stablizing agent over Tu, strengthening it as it does so. Tu redirects Shui energy determining its path. Shui tempers Huo, allowing a controlled burn. Huo forges Jin, giving the unyielding energy the necessary malleability required to wield. Jin prunes Mu's growth, directing its efforts intentionally.