In Chinese Medicine, this time of year is associated with the Metal element, which represents clarity, letting go, and preparing for the stillness of Winter. I always find Fall to be a powerful time for personal growth and healing, as it encourages us to shed what no longer serves us—whether that’s physical clutter, emotional baggage, or even outdated habits.
Physical & Emotional Qualities of the Metal Element
The Metal element in our bodies is linked to the lungs and large intestine, two systems that manage both the intake of what we need and the elimination of what we don’t. Physically, this means breathing deeply and releasing waste efficiently. But emotionally, the Metal element is also about releasing grief and sadness. Just as the trees lose their leaves in Fall, we might find ourselves needing to let go of old wounds or unresolved emotions.
Personally, I notice that when I’m in tune with the Metal element, I can move through emotions like grief in a healthy way, allowing myself to process and release them. But when I’m out of balance, I tend to hold onto sadness, and it weighs me down. By working with the Metal element through yoga and breathwork, I find that I’m able to breathe more deeply—both literally and emotionally—and create space for renewal.
The Lung & Large Intestine Meridians
In Chinese Medicine, the Metal element is connected to the lung and large intestine meridians, which are energy pathways that flow through the body. The lung meridian starts in the chest and travels down the arm, while the large intestine meridian begins in the hand and travels up to the face before flowing down through the intestines. These meridians help regulate our breath and digestion—two functions that are key to staying healthy during the Fall season.
When I practice yoga, I love focusing on poses that open up these meridian lines. One of my favorites is Sphinx Pose, which gently lifts the chest and encourages deep, full breathing. This pose is wonderful for stimulating the lungs, and it also stretches the abdomen, which helps activate the large intestine meridian. Another pose I like to include is Fish Pose. This heart-opening posture not only expands the chest but also creates a sense of emotional release, which is so important during this season of letting go. (You may see these poses show up in current or future classes!)
Pranayama Practice: Three-Part Yogic Breath
Breathwork is also incredibly helpful for supporting the Metal element. One practice that I use regularly is Three-Part Yogic Breath, which helps me fill my lungs completely and breathe more evenly.
Here’s how you can practice it, too:
1. Start by sitting comfortably with one hand on your belly and the other on your chest.
2. Inhale deeply, filling your belly, then your ribs, and finally your chest.
3. Exhale slowly, releasing the air from your chest, ribs, and belly.
4. Repeat this for several minutes, focusing on smooth, controlled breaths.
This practice helps me clear out both physical and emotional toxins. It supports the lungs and large intestine, which are working hard during this time of year to keep us balanced and healthy. Every time I finish this breathwork, I feel lighter, clearer, and more centered. I encourage you to try it as part of your routine this Fall and let me know how it felt for you.
As we move through the season, I invite you to join me in upcoming classes. Together, we’ll continue to explore ways to align with the Metal element and prepare ourselves for the Winter season ahead.
I will be teaching until November 4th and then I will be away for 3 weeks. I look forward to practicing with you after I come back in December!
