In addition to the Principle of Generation, another type of relationship between different Chinese “elements” must be taken into account. This is the Principle of Control.

In this context, it is said that Wood controls Earth, using the image of the roots of a large tree (Wood) penetrating the soil (Earth) as a mnemonic, as if wanting to “grasp” it.

On the other hand, Fire “melts” Metal, while Earth controls Water by establishing limits – in the case of a river, the earth provides it with the bed and the banks, giving it direction.

As for Metal, it “cuts” Wood, another obvious mnemonic, while Water “extinguishes” Fire.

The “Personal Element” or Day Master is the heavenly stem of the day of birth and represents the person to whom the Bazi chart refers.

When there is an “element” that “attacks” or tries to control the Day Master, this can be both favorable and unfavorable. Everything depends on the more or less strengthened degree of the Day Master. If it is strong, the “attack” by another element tends to play a constructive and disciplining role.