Nourishing Your Health This Autumn - How To Harmonise The Metal Element
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Metal element represents refinement, organisation, precision, and letting go. The organs linked to the Metal element are the Lungs and Large Intestine, which reminds us to prioritise our breath, immune health and digestive function during this season. The energy of the Metal element is associated with:
Structure & boundaries
Introspection & clarity
Release & letting go
Quality & discernment
Diet + Nutrition
1) Incorporate white and light-coloured foods such as cauliflower, white reddish, pears, apples, almonds, and white rice. These foods nourish the Lung and Large Intestine meridians.
2) The Metal element is associated with the Lung and Large Intestine meridians, so foods that support respiratory health and proper elimination will be beneficial this season. These may include pungent foods (garlic, onion, ginger, horseradish), warming spices (cinnamon, cardamom) and foods rich in vitamin A and C.
3) Minimise cold, raw foods and excessive dairy which can create dampness and mucus in the lungs. Opt for warm, cooked foods that support the body’s immunity during the colder months.
Movement + Exercise
Rhythmic breathing exercises help to strengthen the Lungs and promote a harmonious flow of Qi within the body. Practice breathing techniques that expand the chest and abdomen, and strengthen the respiratory system. Try to minimise your exposure to air pollutants and chemicals that may harm the Lungs.
Moderate cardio activities like brisk walking, jogging, or cycling in the crisp Autumn air can help strengthen the Lungs, while also allowing your body to coordinate with the seasonal changes in nature.
Emotional + Spiritual Practices
In order to cultivate balance during Autumn, it is important to embrace the Metal element’s qualities of letting go and seeking quality over quantity. Some suggestions to support these processes include:
Practice meditation; focused on acceptance, letting go of what no longer serves you, & embracing simplicity
Deep internal reflection & prioritising your own needs
Decluttering your physical space to create order & clarity (Autumn cleaning is just as important as Spring cleaning!)
Deep breathing practices to strengthen the Lungs & promote emotional release
Set clear boundaries in relationships & commitments
Practice gratitude to acknowledge the abundance in your life before Winter’s stillness
Warning Signs of Metal Element Imbalance
Respiratory issues such as asthma, frequent colds/flus, or shortness of breath
Constipation or irregular elimination
Excessive grief, sadness, or melancholy
Difficulty letting go of relationships, situations, or possessions
Rigidity in thinking or behaviour
Perfectionisms or excessive criticism (of self or others)
Skin issues (the skin is associates with the Lungs in TCM)
Weakened immunity
Note; If you experience hay fever or seasonal allergies in Spring, it is best to start Lung & Metal element strengthening treatments in Autumn for prevention.
If you are currently experiencing or begin to experience any of these symptoms this year, come back to the suggestions listed above or schedule an acupuncture appointment for extra support.
If you think you may have a Metal Element imbalance or if you have any other questions about the information above, you are always welcome to email me directly or fill out the contact form on my website to get in touch.
Veronika Peovska
(BHSc Acupuncture)
“To be skilled at nurturing one’s nature and wellbeing is to treat disease before it arises.” - SUN SIMIAO
