What is the metal element?

METAL

VIDA continues the series on the 5 Element Theory basics by discussing the Metal

element today. Feel free to contact Dr. Randi directly via the VIDA Wellness website

with questions or comments.

• "The forces of autumn create dryness in heaven and metal on earth; the create the

lung organ and the skin upon the body, and the nose, and the white color, and the

pungent flavor, the emotion grief and the ability to make a weeping sound” - The Inner

Classic

The representative organs for the metal element are the lungs and large intestines. The

lung and the large intestines are paired because they are chiefly responsible for

immunity and they both have direct access to the outside world. The lungs are primarily

responsible for respiration and the development of Wei Qi otherwise known as the

immune system. The large intestines are responsible for mineral absorption and

elimination from the body. Recent research is showing that the large intestine and its

ability to absorb minerals and eliminate properly are a key component to immune

function and strength.

Grief and sadness are the emotions associated with this element. Long term unresolved

sadness or attachment to emotions is a root cause of disease in these organs. Other

causes of disease for this element are a sedentary lifestyle, poor dietary choices and

exposure to airborne viruses or allergens. Since the lungs open to the nose and sinuses

any conditions that may arise in these areas are also related to this element.

Autumn is the time of year when the metal element is at its strongest or most vulnerable

depending on how in balance a person is. This is a time of year to begin contracting and

reserving ones energy in preparation for the coming winter. Baking is the preferred

method of cooking during this time of year. In general more sour and spicy foods should

be consumed during this time, foods like spicy chili, sourdough bread, sauerkraut,

olives, garlic, ginger, radish, white peppercorn, pickles, leeks, vinegar, cheese, yogurt,

lemons, limes, grapefruit, sour apples, plums and grapes. Dryness is common during

this time of year and one should consume complimentary foods to avoid damaging the

body.

Foods to Consume: spinach, barley, millet, pear, apple, persimmon, seaweed, nopales,

almond, pine nut, sesame seeds, flaxseed, honey, dairy products (in small amounts)

and shellfish. Plant fiber is also a key nutritional component to maintaining good health,

especially in the large intestines.

Foods to Avoid: alcohol, deep-fried foods, cooking with canola, corn, sunflower or

safflower oil, refined sugars, hot spices, and large evening meals

From 3am to 7am the metal element is at the strongest. During this time one should

arise with the sun, meditate, practice breathing exercises, participate in light

cardiovascular workout and have a bowel movement.

A typical metal element person has square broad shoulders, a triangular white face, and

strongly built body. This person walks slowly but deliberately and are described as

meticulous, independent, and strong willed. If they are in good health they will have a

healthy glow to their skin, and a strong voice.

Common Imbalances: cough, cold, sinusitis, allergies, constipation, IBS, crohn's

disease, diverticulitis, skin disorders, general feeling of sadness and depression.

The information in this posting is derived from a lecture given by Dr. Randi. A general

overview of the 5 Elements can be found at http://www.acupuncturetoday.com . You

may also review the holistic rehab treatment services VIDA Wellness offers for full body

organic detox/overhaul and addiction recovery in Playa Negra, Costa Rica. Feel free to

contact Dr. Randi directly via the VIDA website with questions or comments. Pura Vida!