Autumn is a season of transition. It is when the vibrant growth of spring and summer give way to falling leaves, crisp air and shorter days. Within the Five Elements in Chinese philosophy, autumn corresponds with the Metal element, which embodies clarity, structure and refinement. The energy of the Metal element is inward and contracting, inviting us to distill what is essential and release what no longer serves us. During this time, the Lungs and Large Intestine are at their most vulnerable and most likely to be affected by wind, cold and dryness. Emotionally, Metal is linked to grief, but also to the profound beauty that arises from acceptance and appreciation. It is the element of boundaries, discipline, and value, helping us discover resilience and purity within ourselves.
Nourish your Metal Energy with these practices
- Support your lungs with daily breathing exercises: Autumn’s dry air can stress the respiratory system, so strengthening the Lungs is key
- Eat pungent foods: The pungent taste activates the Lungs and Large Intestine, promoting circulation and detoxification
- Declutter and organise your space: Metal thrives on clarity, structure and purity. A cluttered environment can stagnate Metal energy, leading to mental fog or emotional rigidity
- Embrace emotional release and reflection: Metal is associated with emotion and grief. Finding balance through the Metal element means honouring and processing our sadness while also cultivating inspiration and sense of purpose
- Practise physical movement to stimulate Metal energy: Gentle precise movements or chest opening stretches support the Lungs and energy flow in the body
Foods for Strengthening the Metal Element
1. Pungent foods
Stimulate the Lungs, clear mucus, and support detoxification through the Large Intestine.
Garlic, ginger, onion, fennel, horseradish
2. Moistening Fruits & Veg
Align with Metal energy and help the Lung membranes, which require moisture to function.
- Daikon radish, cauliflower, lotus root, celery, pear
3. Warm and neutral foods
Strengthen the Lungs and Large Intestine, and support smooth digestion and steady vitality during the Metal season.
- Soups and broths
- Baked root vegetables
4. Grains and Proteins
Have a neutral thermal nature that balances autumn’s cool, dry energy.
- Brown rice has a neutral thermal nature
- Oat grain is high in fiber and is moistening
- Adzuki beans are high in fiber, promoting healthy digestion and regular bowel movements
5. Herbs and Spices
Stimulate Lung Qi, disperse dryness, and support Large Intestine elimination.
- Ginger warms the Lungs and aids digestion
- White pepper opens airways
- Cinnamon has a naturally gentle warming effect
- Mustard greens stimulates circulation
If you’re interested in trying some recipes that are specifically for the Autumn time, take a look at these cookbooks:
- Macrobiotics for All Seasons by Marlene Watson-Tara, Chapter 9: Fighting fit for Autumn
- Riverford Autumn and Winter cooking with a veg box by Guy Watson, October to June
The Changing Seasons Macrobiotic Cookbook by Wendy Esko, Chapter 4: Autumn cooking
As Autumn’s crisp air settles in and the Metal element takes centre stage, we must remember to embrace clarity and release any inner tensions. This is the time to nurture your Lungs and Large Intestine by cultivating resilience and purity to carry you with strength into winter’s quiet depths.