TCM Five Element Theory- Metal Element

/in /by

The Five Element Theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine speaks of the connectedness of all things and how the different aspects of nature interact with each other and with man. It also details how the different structures and systems in our body are connected to each other and to the natural world. The connection and interactions present humans as part of nature and the universe at large.

Today I want to discuss the Metal Element. The associations of the Metal Element are: the Lung and Large Intestine Meridians

  • The nose
  • Skin and hair
  • The emotion of grief
  • Crying
  • Autumn
  • Dryness
  • The color white
  • Spicy flavor
  • Direction- west
  • 3 am-7 am

“The Lung’s major functions include maintaining healthy immune defenses against pathogens, as well as circulating Qi and fluids throughout the body.” The Lung and Large Intestine Meridians help us to let go of that which no longer serves us, whether it’s mental emotional, or physical.

Possible symptoms of Lung imbalance are:

  • Runny nose, sinus congestion, sneezing, loss of smell
  • Catching colds easily in the fall and fall allergies
  • Difficulty processing grief and loss, easily brought to tears
  • waking between 3-5 am and having difficulty going back to sleep

Tips for supporting the lung:

  • eat spicy foods, fresh vegetables, tofu, beans, white meat, and vegetables
  • deep breathing, especially outdoors in nice weather
  • let go of that which you no longer need ( clean out your closets)
  • keep warm in cold weather, especially your chest and neck
  • practice qigong or tai chi, these exercises stretch the lung meridian and get the energy moving
  • have your energy balanced