The Five Arts, Wu Shu, are the five branches of traditional knowledge. For the Eastern mind, the universe has a defined and inherent order. That is to say, life is not a random process. Chinese metaphysics aims to study the functioning of phenomena and the way change occurs in nature. Another characteristic of Eastern thought is the interconnection between all things and the applicability of universal principles to all areas.
Shan, Art of the Mountain
is the study of philosophical principles in the abstract. Philosophy in its purest state, which can also be called the "order of the universe." Therefore, it includes all other arts but specifically the study of the Dao; exercises such as Tai Chi, Qi Gong, and other martial arts; meditation and more practical applications such as Cooking. Macrobiotics is a modern form of Shan.
Yi, Art of Medicine
is the study of the functioning of the human body. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, various therapies are considered, from acupuncture with needles or fire (moxibustion), massage (tui na, shiatsu among others), as well as the use of herbs and home remedies.
Pu, Art of Divination
that is, the art of predicting the consequence of a certain action. Among the most popular systems of divination are the various methods and approaches of the I Ching as well as the various schools of Qi Men Dun Jia.
Ming, Art of Destiny
Studies Astrology and Astronomy. Traditionally, astrology and astronomy were a single study. Eastern astrology is based on the circular concept of time. The observation of the effect of a certain cycle of time on an individual's life allows for the anticipation of a similar effect in the next period of time with the same characteristics. Among the most popular forms of Chinese astrology are Ba Zi (Four Pillars of Destiny) and Zi Wei Dou Shu (Purple Star Astrology). Nine Star Ki or Ki Astrology is a simple and popular, yet very effective form practiced in Japan. Date Selection, for weddings, business, buying and selling, etc., is one of the most useful and sought-after arts in the East.
Xiang, Art of Form, or Appearance
This last one studies Feng Shui Yin (spiritual) and Feng Shui Yang (of houses), Palmistry (study of hand lines), Face Reading, and “Naming,” among others.
Watch a video about Ba Zi, an astrology system included in Ming - Art of Destiny
