The Metal Element
 In Chinese Medicine, Five Element Theory is one of the major systems of thought. From a historical perspective it is an important underpinning of medical theory and serves as one of the major diagnostic and treatment protocols. Five Element Theory is based on the observation of the natural cycles and interrelationships in both our environment and within ourselves.
The Five Elements are Fire, Earth, Metal, Water, and Wood. Each element has a list of correspondences. For instance, the Metal Element corresponds to the fall season (autumn) and is associated with the Lungs and Large Intestine. It’s sense organ is the nose and the environmental correspondence is dryness. The emotion associated with the Metal Element is grief and its sound is crying. Its taste correspondent is pungent. During the autumn, the lungs and large intestine become more vulnerable to the changes in the season. The air becomes dry affecting the lining of the nasal passages, the throat, and the lungs. For some, the coming of the cold weather brings on arthritic pain, colds, allergies, sinus infections, and seasonal depression or sadness. Click Here to View Five Element Chart |
Suggestions
The following list suggests ways to help your body transition into the cold weather with more ease Use a humidifier at home and at your job Dress warmly and avoid drafts Open your windows on occasion to bring in some fresh air and clear stale air Stay hydrated and drink warm beverages Wash your hands frequently and avoid large crowds Shop online for Holiday gifts Add some pungent foods into the diet About Pungent Foods Pungent is the hottest of all tastes. It is found in certain vegetables (such as chili peppers, garlic, and onions), and in spices (such as black pepper, ginger, and cayenne). Chinese consider cruciferous vegetables, such as alyssum, candytuft, cabbage, radish, broccoli, and many weeds, as pungent foods.Pungent and spicy foods are vivifying and decongesting. Pungent foods induce perspiration by helping clear dampness from your body. Pungent Flavors
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