The Metal Element
GRIEF - SADNESS - LETTING GO
The lungs are the only external organ in our body and is therefore more susceptible to pathogens. The lungs have the ability to take in what is useful (like Qi from breathing) and release what is not. It’s not just about the actual metal — it’s about what metal stands for — being strong, clear about things, and knowing when it’s time to let things go.
METAL - CREATES - WATER
METAL - CONTROLS - WOOD
ORGAN
Lungs and Large Instestine
The lungs and large intestine organs govern the which govern respiration, immunity, and the elimination of waste. Often when we have blocked nose or sinus issues we tend to also have issues with our large intestines
Season
Autumn
Another easy one to explain as the lungs connect to the Autumn season, an increase in coughs and colds around this time of year is more often than not sure to weakness in the lungs or the inability for the lungs to fight off external pathogens as effectively as strong balanced lungs
Colour
White
White's connection to the metal element is tied to themes of mental clarity, completion, and creativity, while also representing the season of autumn and the metal's ability to be refined and molded
Taste
Spicy
This spicy flavor is seen as warming and expansive, helping to stimulate circulation, promote sweating, and break up accumulations, which mirrors how the Metal element functions to circulate and protect.
Signs of Metal Imbalance in TCM
Physical Symptoms of Lung and Large Intestine Imbalances
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Frequent colds, flu, and allergies
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Shallow breathing, shortness of breath
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Coughing, wheezing, asthma, and bronchitis
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Nasal and sinus congestion
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Constipation
Emotional Symptoms of Lung and Large Intestine Imbalance
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Prolonged or unresolved grief and sadness
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Depression, melancholy, or a loss of inspiration
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Emotional detachment, aloofness, or emotional numbness
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Rigidity, perfectionism, and an inability to adapt to change
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Low self-esteem or issues with self-wort
How Does Tai Chi and Qigong Help Metal Imbalances
Metal is an important part of any qigong practices due to the connection with the breath. Many of the exercises involve breath work, breathing in as an expansion and out as a contraction. Learning how to breath properly is key to igniting our lifeforce.