The arrival of Autumn in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) theory, transitions us into the season of the element Metal. This cycle in nature (as is TCM theory) is that of Harvest. As described in last month's TCM article, each element in the five element theory has a relevant color, taste, emotion, and climate in our lives which work together in unison.
The associated organs of the Metal Element are the Lung and Large Intestine. Ttheir function is to absorb things in and eliminate what we don’t need. Our ability to take in oxygen and eliminate waste are examples of this.
The associated Emotion of Metal is grief. As many of us are aware, holding onto grief or any other emotion can have a debilitating effect on our well being. Processing our emotions and “letting go” of grief or other unhealthy emotions keeps our bodies healthy.
The climate of Metal is Dry. Climates in the five elements need to be in balance, neither excessive nor deficient. In TCM the Lungs rule the skin.
So it follows in theory that excessive or insufficient dryness affects the skin and excessive or insufficient dryness can cause discomfort in the Large Intestine. Our skin protects our body from outside influences such as disease. Much like the metal exterior of our car keeps us safe from weather and debris when we drive.
This protective force around our skin is known as our Wei Qi. It is our ability to fend off pathogens, colds and flu for example, much like our immune system does. Wei Qi is a function of our Lungs.
Just like metal pipes move water and waste, our Lungs turn our breath into moisture and circulate it through our respiratory system to help keep it clean and moist. Dry coughs and sore throats are more problematic this time of year. A humidifier often relieves the dryness.
Staying hydrated and eating plenty of fruits and vegetables helps keep our Large Intestine, our internal pipes of waste removal, working smoothly. It also keeps our skin clear!
So autumn is the time we prepare for winter. Externally ”gathering the harvest “ and internally building our Wei Qi.
Nanette Ginise shares her insight into Eastern Herbal Medicine Practices with us as a certified herbal medicine practitioner and reflexologist. She has studied the health benefits of herbal medicine, both eastern and western herbal practices, for over 20 years. Nanette travels to China every year to continue her studies on the latest in herbal medicine practices.
Her insights into traditional Chinese health & wellness practices, "TCM Tidbits," will be featured regularly in future issues of Aetherial Living.If you enjoy this article, or would like to know more about Nanette, please drop her a comment at nanette@aetheriaspa.com
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