Finding Light in Autumn
Exploring the Metal element, grief and the warmth of connection through Shiatsu & TCM theory.
One of the things that made me relate to Eastern medicine so much is that physical and emotional patterns are never separate. They are seen as expressions of a wider energetic picture, something that can be recognised, supported, and gently brought back into harmony. Based upon the Five Elements and how they interplay to create all that exists in the natural world, this theory gave me a language and a gateway towards understanding myself and others.
In Autumn there is an emphasis on the Lungs and Large Intestine, the Metal Organs of the season. Each season is attributed to an element:
Metal to Autumn, Water to Winter, Wood to Spring, Fire to Summer, and Earth to Late Summer and the transitional periods between the seasons.
None can exist without the other and each plays an important role in the continuous cycle of life and nature. I loved how we could attribute the cycle of our human lives to this theory- born in the Utmost Yin Water phase, moving through each element as we develop, flourish, grow, decline, and ultimately return to the stillness of Water.
In harmony we move through each phase with ease, but we know that life is not as simple as this. Still, we can use each phase as a reference, as we attempt to live with as much ease and good health as we can. As Autumn is the season when nature begins its descent towards Winter, we may begin to do the same as humans- moving a little slower, eating warmer foods to balance as the temperature declines, becoming more Yin. We may see others less than we did in the high Yang of Summer and with this can come grief and sadness, as we decline inwards to deeper elements of ourselves.
The breath reminds us of our individuality while serving as a constant exchange with the world around us.
When we experience patterns of grief, isolation, sadness or low mood, we may notice this becoming more apparent as we move energetically with the season. The Lungs are particularly affected by sadness and grief, which are known to deplete the ‘Qi’- equally worry which is known to knot the ‘Qi.’ Over time this can cause stagnation, a lack of flow, feelings of heaviness in the chest.
Autumn can be beautiful and rich with vibrant colours and gorgeous, crisp days. Some people say that it is the most beautiful time of the year, perhaps in acceptance of the fact that decline and loss are natural processes that we all- humans and nature- will experience in one way or another. It’s a human experience that no one can avoid and one that we all face, yet somehow we often process alone, privately and in isolation.
In traditional Chinese medicine theory, just as the elements create separate phases, they can also be applied by means of balance to each other. For example, if a person feels a heaviness and deep sadness in Autumn, this can be considered as “excessive Metal” and to bring this into relative balance we could consider ways in which some elements of Yang could bring about a positive effect. Without stepping into too much theory the element that can affect or ‘control’ Metal is Fire, with the heat and warmth to bend and yield when it becomes too fixed or rigid. I love this analogy of bending or melting the Metal, essentially warming it into flow and ease.
Fire is expression, connection, unity, compassion for self and others. It feels light and spacious in balance and harmony. Some of the most Fire-inducing moments we can experience as people are felt in acts of unity, humanity and connection. Chanting, singing, dancing, talking and feeling part of something won’t necessarily solve all of our problems but it can bring at least a little bit of light and warmth to us, as social beings- warming and opening our Lungs in exchange with the universe. Providing a wee spark that may feel a little bit lost.
When we receive Shiatsu with feelings and sensations related to grief, sadness, isolation, the first action that can begin to affect this situation is the warmth, connection and safety of therapeutic touch. We use appropriate acupressure points to promote balance, movement of stagnated Qi and feelings of harmony and release. We influence the nervous system, particularly the vagus nerve, to encourage the conditions for social engagement- a ‘Firey’ feat. We can also recommend ways to work with the feelings and emotions experienced. Some people find it helpful to combine talking therapies with Shiatsu- each complimenting the other.
What is most important to remember is that we are ultimately connected in our humanity and all of the experiences and challenges that this may bring. Sometimes life is difficult and isolating and in these moments we may lose sight of our connection to others and the ways that we can attempt to find balance again. In seeking out connections, opening up to someone we trust or a health professional, we can find the appropriate help we need to feel more at home within ourselves again.
If you are experiencing emotional or mental health difficulties, here are some resources that might be of help:
Mind: Call 0300 123 3393 for support and information on various mental health topics.
Samaritans: Reach out for 24/7 emotional support by calling 116 123 or visiting their website.
Young Minds: Call 0808 802 5544 for support and guidance for young people.
Breathing Space - 0800 83 85 87.
NHS 24 Mental Health Hub - dial 111 and select the mental-health option.
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