Metal Element

 Metal Element

• Energy (Qi/Chi) is in its most condensed form. 
• The metal elements include minerals, stones, crystals, and even ice. It is the most solid expression of energy. 
• When metal energy expands it becomes water energy. Too much water energy can exhaust or overwhelm metal energy
• Metal energy is fueled by earth energy. However, the production of too much metal energy can exhaust Earth energy. 
• Metal energy destroys wood energy. 

Organs

• The lungs are the Yin or passive organ associated with the metal element.
  • Most oxygen exchange occurs in the base of the lungs. 
  • The lungs bring in the Qi which is grasped by the kidneys. 
  • The lungs rule the skin.
    • Health, rosy, glowing skin is a sign of strong lung (metal) Qi. 
  • The lung meridian ends in the thumb
• The large intestines are the Yang or active organ associated with the metal element.
  • Contains about 70% of the cells that make up the body’s immune system.
  • The large intestine meridian ends in the index finger and begins at the nose. 

Emotions

• The lungs are the seat of our feelings and sentiments and allow us to feel grief, sadness, and courage. 
• When the lungs are weak (negative metal emotions) one is prone to self-pity, depression, and lack of vitality or will. 
• When the lungs are overactive one is outwardly expressive of of sadness and grief, that is, crying, sobbing, lashing out verbally, and pessimistic. (Think about it, crying, and laughing are both just strange ways to breathe).
• Positive metal emotions include discernment, for example, discerning what to hold on to and and what to let go of. Holding on to grief can lead to health issues. 
• When the lungs (metal element) are balanced you feel more compassionate, energized, organized, and decisive. 

Season – Autumn

Time of Day – Metal energy peaks in the large intestines from 5 am – 7 am, and in the lungs 3 am – 5 am. 

•  insomnia occurring during this time is due to an imbalance of metal (lung/large intestine) Qi.