The Metal Element: The Benefits of Qigong for Autumn Wellness
I have two apple trees in my backyard that don’t always produce fruit, depending on the timing of the last frost. But this year, We’ve been blessed with a bumper crop! My dog, who’s recovering from ACL surgery, seems to have caught on and eats at least one apple a day. As she lounges more than usual, she occasionally makes her way into the yard, finds an apple, and chews it down to nothing—ha! It must be her instincts telling her to eat this nutritious seasonal fruit.
My husband, who’s also been recovering from surgery, decided to put a call out to the community, inviting anyone who wanted apples to come and pick as many as they could carry. Some came to make pies, apple sauce, and cider. This simple act of giving seemed to lift my husband's spirits, and being outside in the late summer warmth was good for his soul—and he even crunched on a few more apples than usual!
Reflecting on that day, I couldn’t help but think of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where the natural world and our bodies are deeply interconnected. TCM views life through the lens of the Five Elements—Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water—all present in some way during that day’s activities. These elements mirror the cyclical nature of life, our health, and our environment.
Understanding the Five Elements in TCM
In TCM, the Five Element theory provides a holistic framework to understand how the different aspects of health—diet, movement, and emotions—are interconnected with nature. Each element corresponds to a season, organ system, and various bodily functions. Here’s a quick overview:
Each element has a dynamic relationship with the others, either generating or controlling another, creating balance in both nature and the body. However, if one element becomes imbalanced, it can lead to dysfunction, such as stress affecting digestion (Wood overacting on Earth) or burnout (Fire exhausting Water).
Transitioning to the Metal Element & Autumn
As we move into fall, we shift from the more active, outward energy of the yang seasons (spring and summer) to the more introspective, inward energy of the yin seasons (fall and winter). In this transition, we align with the Metal Element, which governs the lungs and large intestine, both essential for letting go and drawing in.
Just as the trees release their fruits and then leaves, fall is the time for us to reflect, declutter, and let go of anything that no longer serves us—physically, emotionally, and mentally. This process creates space for new inspiration, much like the crisp, fresh air that fills our lungs as the season changes.
The Metal Element: Letting Go and Breathing in the New
Lungs: In TCM, the lungs are seen as the “receiver of pure Qi (energy) from the heavens.” Autumn's cool, crisp air helps us take in fresh inspiration, while deep breathing practices like qigong nourish and strengthen the lungs.
Large Intestine: The large intestine helps eliminate waste, both physically and emotionally. Clearing out clutter, whether it’s the clothes in our closets or unresolved emotional baggage, allows us to move forward with clarity.
Practical Steps to Harmonize with the Metal Element:
1. Declutter your space: Take time to clear out areas like closets or garages. Let go of what no longer serves you, and consider donating items to others.
2. Mental inventory: Reflect on unresolved emotions—resentments, grudges, or anxieties. Consider writing them down and then burning the paper as a symbolic release.(I personally love to burn stuff, but please be safe!)
3. Mindful breathing: Practice deep, slow breathing outdoors, allowing the fresh autumn air to cleanse and invigorate you. With each exhale, release negativity or tension.
4. Qigong for Fall: Gentle, flowing movements can help you slow down, regulate your nervous system, and align with the seasonal energy of Metal. I'll be sharing specific movements in class to support this transition.
The Power of Qigong as a Self-Care Practice
Qigong, rooted in the principles of TCM, offers a simple yet profound way to reconnect with your body and the rhythms of nature. Whether you’re a regular student or new to the practice, it’s a wonderful self-care movement practice that can be done anywhere, anytime.
For women in the pre- and post-menopausal stages, Qigong is particularly beneficial for regulating the nervous system, slowing down, and finding balance amidst life’s transitions. With its focus on breathwork, gentle movement, and mindfulness, qigong can help soothe stress, enhance mental clarity, and bring calm to the body and mind.
Looking Ahead: The Autumn Equinox & Qigong Practices for Fall
As we move beyond the Autumn Equinox, I’ve added a FREE class for beginners to join my community on Thursday’s at 8:30am - 9am. I’ll be incorporating warm ups with movements that align with the Metal Element, helping you balance the energy of this season. We’ll focus on practices that support the lungs and large intestine, encouraging both the release of what no longer serves us and the intake of fresh, nourishing energy. This short and sweet class will end with a 5 minute mindfulness practice. Newcomers are welcomed and encouraged to come but anyone can join!
Stay tuned for more details about my upcoming Intro to Qigong course launching in the new year. Until then, I encourage you to embrace this season of reflection and renewal, and I look forward to seeing you in class as we continue this journey together.
Flow with the Rhythm
The cycle of nature offers us a perfect metaphor for our own lives. Just as the trees let go of their leaves, we too can use this time to let go, reflect, and prepare for the quieter yin season ahead. Join me in class this fall to explore the ways qigong can help you stay grounded, centered, and aligned with the rhythm of the seasons.
