Water extending to the knees.

As the five transformations cycle through us, Fire extends above our bodies into the world and Water below our bodies to root in the ground. The internal transformations cycle through our torsos circulating qi and allowing our bodies to function. Fire extends above our torso into the head, which is a wonderful way for us to receive information from the world. Water extends below our torsos into our knees and legs.

When the Water element is dysfunctional, we may experience it as knee pain. If water qi doesn't descend properly, the knees can be in a state of deficiency. Or they may disconnect from the body and their motions become improper. Or the lack of flow causes the knees to lose lubrication which leads to problems. In all cases, part of the cure is helping the transformation of Water extend below itself and into the knees.

Photo courtesy of postbear