The Five Adaptation Types

For thousands of years, Taoist philosophy has been trying to forecast certain events occurring in the universe, on the planet as well as within the individual’s life hoping to find a way to predetermine humans’ behaviour as well as the best way to address and overcome any obstacles.

Through constant observation of nature, a dynamic interchange has been discovered which seems to follow a regular pattern - for example, the seed (Yin) grows into the plant (Yang) which eventually withers and dies back into the earth (Yin). Winter (Yin) transforms through Spring into Summer (Yang) which in turn changes through Autumn into Winter (Yin) again.

However, life is not just fluctuating between Yin and Yang; nature expresses itself in five different phenomena, aptly called the Five Elements. These so-called Elements (Metal, Water, Wood, Fire and Earth) represent all natural appearances around us.

Following that discovery, a fascinating system developed which endeavoured to determine human characteristics and temperament by assigning a particular combination of Elements to a person.

In this context, the term ‘Element’ does not bear the same meaning as in Western thinking. In Chinese terms, it is not seen as a material substance but rather as a power or a specific quality of the Universe. This idea of varied energetic states forming particular relationships with each other corresponds amazingly to modern discoveries in physics – especially Quantum Physics.

However, through the course of time, and different scientific developments, this often correct and helpful way of analysing a person proved to be too simplistic, almost two-dimensional while the human character presents itself much more like a hologram.

By incorporating modern psychology, neuroscience and ongoing research into human behaviour under certain circumstances, the term Adaptation Type developed.

What is meant by Adaptation Type?

Loosely speaking, it defines the way in which a person adjusts to changes in the environment or to specific experiences. By recognizing the individual Adaptation Type, one is able to understand oneself creating the ability to change one's perspective, by reframing a difficult situation or developing a coping mechanism. 

All our behaviour is determined by how we adapt – or maladapt. By recognizing our Adaptation Type we are able to find our true path forward, avoiding too many ‘trials and errors’.

For example:

Why is one person resilient and seems to endure hardship without any visible damage while another one breaks down under a comparatively small issue?

Why does one person thrive in a big office while another one cannot handle being in constant company?

Why is one child always angry while another one tends to cry easily and a third one shrugs everything off?

Is it just genes or due to upbringing? Then, why do so many people work in the wrong environment, keep going into the wrong relationship, feel easily depressed or lost motivation?

Do you recognize any of these in yourself or in your family?

Let me help you to discover the underlying pattern.

Life does not have to be a string of wrong jobs, unhappy relationships or kids who feel miserable at school. Especially teenagers on the verge to a new phase in their life benefit from gaining clarity about the path ahead of them – and the control they have once they are aware of their Adaptation Type.