The Five Archetypes

February 17, 2020
Holistic health teacher Davidson provides a framework for living a more mindful and fulfilling life in this comprehensive analysis of five archetypes of behavior. Originating in traditional Chinese medicine, the five archetypes correlate with natural elements and are intended to allow people to tap into the nature of their strengths, challenges, motivations, and preoccupations. Wood represents the trailblazer who encourages people to change; Fire, the optimist who entertains people; Earth, the caregiver who is a teacher and supporter; Metal, the architect who is considerate; and Water, the philosopher who is shy and seeks meaning. Davidson provides instructions on performing a self-assessment to determine one’s primary and secondary archetypes, then explains strengths, needs, and relationship-building activities for each. For example, Fire types are glass-half-full spiritualists who are emotionally aware, while Water types focus on wisdom and problem solving but are also skeptics. Readers well-versed in mindfulness exercises and Chinese medicine will be most interested in these pragmatic exercises for making lasting life improvements. Agent: Jane von Mehren, Aevitas Creative Management.