Welcome to Autumn and the Metal Element

The Metal Element in Chinese Medicine: A Season of Reflection, Release, and Value 

As autumn sets in, nature enters a period of change, and so do we. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this season is ruled by the Metal element, which brings clarity, refinement, and the process of letting go. Just as trees shed their leaves, we too are encouraged to release what no longer serves us, making space for new inspiration and growth. However, Metal also carries a deeper lesson—helping us to recognize what is precious in our lives, both within and around us.

Metal represents value, preciousness, and the understanding that what we hold dear deserves to be preserved, while what is no longer useful must be let go. It governs the ability to discern between what is valuable and what is expendable, offering us the wisdom to focus on what truly matters. 

Inspiration and Boundaries: The Refinement of Lung Energy

The Lung Meridian is closely linked to inspiration, both literal and metaphorical. As we breathe deeply, we not only take in air but also draw in energy and vitality. Inspiration feeds our sense of self, helping us to make clear decisions, set healthy boundaries, and focus on what is truly important. This connection to breath and inspiration allows us to evaluate what is precious to us—our time, energy, relationships—and to protect those treasures by setting clear boundaries.

Balanced Lung energy fosters clarity and self-awareness, allowing us to assess what brings value into our lives. With this clarity, we can organize our thoughts and actions with precision, ensuring that our time and energy are spent on things that truly matter. This makes it easier to say "no" to distractions or unnecessary demands and to preserve what is most meaningful.

Letting Go: The Purifying Power of the Large Intestine

While the Lung Meridian helps us take in and appreciate life’s riches, the Large Intestine Meridian reminds us of the importance of release. Letting go is a natural part of life’s cycle—just as autumn trees drop their leaves to make way for new growth in the spring, we must shed what no longer serves us to make space for what’s next. The act of release is a form of purification, allowing us to focus on what is essential.

The Large Intestine helps us let go not only physically but also emotionally and spiritually. Sometimes, we hold onto outdated beliefs, unfulfilled dreams, or past disappointments, which can weigh us down and prevent us from moving forward. The Large Intestine energy encourages us to release these burdens, making room for new opportunities and growth. In this way, we clear away the distractions that obscure the preciousness of what truly matters.

Grief and Sadness: The Emotional Aspects of Metal

The Metal element is also closely associated with grief, sadness, and loss. In our modern, fast-paced society, we often don’t allow ourselves enough time to fully process these emotions. However, grief is a natural part of life, just as endings are a natural counterpart to new beginnings. When we don't properly acknowledge and release grief, it can become trapped in the body, affecting both our physical health and emotional well-being.

Unresolved grief can manifest in various ways—such as feelings of regret, tightness in the chest, or difficulty letting go of the past. The Metal element teaches us that while grief and sadness are inevitable, they are also opportunities for transformation. By acknowledging and expressing these emotions, we open ourselves to healing and renewal.

Checking in with yourself:

When your Metal element is balanced, you feel grounded, clear-headed, and capable of making decisions that honour your personal boundaries. You are able to take in inspiration, breathe deeply, and let go of what no longer serves you. You feel strong in your sense of self and connected to the larger flow of life.

However, an imbalance in the Metal element can show up in several ways. You might feel overwhelmed by grief or sadness, have trouble setting boundaries, or hold on too tightly to rigid habits or beliefs. On the other hand, you may find it difficult to let go of the past, becoming stuck in cycles of regret or frustration.

Physically, this may manifest as respiratory issues, constipation, or skin problems—all signs that the Lung and Large Intestine meridians are not functioning optimally.

How to Strengthen and Balance Your Metal Element:

As you move through this season, consider how you can support your Metal element and restore balance. Here are a few suggestions to help you align with the energy of autumn:

1. Breathe Deeply: Practice deep breathing exercises to strengthen your Lung Qi. Spending time in nature, especially in fresh air, can help you reconnect with your breath and draw in life-giving energy.

2. Reflect and Release: Take time to reflect on what you need to let go of, whether it’s an old belief, a past disappointment, or an emotional burden. Journaling, meditation, or simply acknowledging these feelings can help you release them.

3. Set Clear Boundaries: Review your personal and emotional boundaries. Are there areas where you need to be firmer in protecting your energy? Say "no" when necessary and prioritise your well-being.

4. Grieve Fully: If you are experiencing grief or sadness, allow yourself to process these emotions without rushing. Give yourself time to mourn endings or losses, knowing that grief is a natural part of life’s cycle. Get support from friends and family, if you need it or consider finding a counsellor to support you.

5. Declutter: Physically and emotionally, now is the time to declutter. Clear out old belongings, clean your living space, or release old mental habits that are no longer serving you.

By working with the energy of the Metal element, you can cultivate clarity, strength, and the ability to embrace both inspiration and release. This season of transition is a powerful opportunity to reflect on what you need to let go of and what you want to invite into your life, helping you move forward with a sense of lightness and purpose.