Autumn, Time to Reflect

Late summer was Earth Time when the shadows grew longer and we first noticed the freshness of the air at dawn and dusk. This marked our descent into fall-autumn where the glory of the summer warmth hangs suspended in our memories. Now is when the colours of the landscape show up in many variations of yellow (the colour of earth) when nature is at its most brilliant self.

Late summer however has given way to the time of the Metal element. In a few weeks, the trees will completely shed their colourful mantle and the water will take on the sheen of mercury as it becomes still and cold. The weather will become more extreme, alternating between cool in the shade and warm in the sunlight, while the wind becomes erratic as it changes from calm, blustery and even gale force and shifts from south-west to north-east. All these signify change is upon us.

The Metal element governs our skin, nose, water passages, mucous membranes, respiration and the strength of our voice. The organ systems that correspond to this element are the lung and large intestine. These represent what comes into our lives and what needs to be eliminated. The emotion is of this time of year is ruled by grief. Just as the trees let go of their leaves, so we too need to acknowledge our losses and let them go as we prepare for a new chapter in our lives.

Autumn is the time to be mindful, reflect on our blessings and take an inventory of everything we have accomplished. Just like the phases of the moon from new to full, the plants of the earth have bloomed and produced its fruit. Everything has come to fruition. Like the trees that have shed their leaves, we too have the opportunity to shed the things that no longer serve us well. That gives us room for change.

People with a predominantly metal archetype like order and value the finer things in life. They like rules, simplicity and find inspiration in what is right. They are guided by courage and the conviction of their principles. The colour of this element is white and represents purity. The lung rules the wei qi. This is the defensive energy that protects us at the skin level. The metal people in our lives also protect us and watch over us and keep us on the straight and narrow path.

So as the days get shorter, we will need to pay more attention to what we eat, what we wear and what we think, paying special attention to our mental health. This season can bring more lung issues and we can become pensive, worried or sad. Now is the time to eat pungent, savoury, spicy and warming foods, nutritious soups, stews and consume herbs to boost immunity. It is time to don socks and scarves to keep us warm and stay positive. Most importantly, since emotional wellbeing and physical health are inseparable, it helps to be grateful for everything no matter how small.