What if trees refused to let go of their dying leaves...letting go lets us grow. ~ Laurie Wallin

Hello everyone,

I trust this message reaches you in good health and may you find calm & peace in your heart amidst these deeply saddening events and turbulent times in the world.

In this third issue of Holistic Wellness Newsletter, I would like to introduce the Metal Element, which is associated with the season of autumn. Metal, is the element of structure and it is among the five elements (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water) of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

The three ancient healing systems of Yoga, Ayurveda and Chinese Medicine always emphasises on harmony and balance. Just as in nature, when balanced in our mind and body, the five elements will always support and nourish each other. Each element is associated with specific qualities, organs, emotions, and seasons. It is important to maintain balance within the elements for overall health and well-being.

During the autumn months, things are winding down and life is preparing for hibernation. Autumn is the time of year when we tend to let go of the things that no longer serve us. Just as leaves fall from the trees in these months, we should also let go of the things, physical or mental, that prevent us from moving on forward and growing. Let's welcome this season, opening our hearts and minds for new beginnings, opportunities and growth.

Om Shanti,

Divya Beste Dolanay

The element for Autumn: Metal

The Organs and Energetic Meridians: The organs and the energetic meridians for Metal Element are the lungs and its partner organ, the large intestine. The large intestine functions to “let go” of toxins and waste products our bodies no longer need to function. The lungs and the large intestine work as a team; one gets rid of waste, while the other brings in nourishment. The colour of this element is gray and the taste associated with Metal is pungent.

Qualities: Metal element is thought to be about connection and purity. Metal tend to strive for perfection which can be a source of disappointment including oneself. Those who belong to the Metal element can be flexible and malleable, but when it’s unbalanced, one can become “solid” and appear to be indifferent, very formal, and seem distant.

When the metal element is out of balance,  due to either excesses or deficiencies within the lung and large intestine meridians, we may experience allergies, asthma, wheezing, colds, coughing, grief, sadness, skin rashes, eczema, diarrheas or constipation. 

Balancing: TCM seeks to address these imbalances through various treatments such as yin yoga, mindfulness, meditation, qigong, acupressure massage, acupuncture, herbal remedies, dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes and other modalities to restore harmony and well-being.

• One way to counter a breakdown in the system is by eating foods like ginger, onions, turnips, cauliflower, apples, potatoes and pears. These are all good examples of white foods that can help boost or tonify the energy of the lung and large intestine meridians. Also, try pungent food such as wasabi, mustard, Sichuan pepper, mint and tangerine peel. Take high fiber food to help eliminate waste and prevent constipation, as metal is related to the large intestine.

• Take moderate fluid intake to retain skin moisture.

• Exercise and deep breathing can be done daily to help keep the metal element in balance and harmony. Additionally, try using the healing sound is “Ssssss” while you exhale. These practices can help strengthen the lungs, boost immunity in the body and benefit the respiratory system.

Yoga poses: Chest openers, heart opening movements and poses, eagle arms, thread the needle pose, twisted root pose are some examples for balancing the metal element.

Note: While TCM and yoga provides a holistic perspective on health, it should not replace professional medical advice or treatment.

For customised guidance tailored to your individual needs, discover more about my 'Therapeutic Movement and Holistic Wellness coaching program' rooted in TCM principles: Click Here

Holistic Wellness Tip: Dinacharya

In the pursuit of a healthier and more balanced life, the daily embrace of wellness routines and self-care rituals plays a pivotal role. Ayurveda, an ancient system of natural healing from India, introduces us to “Dinacharya,” a Sanskrit term that translates to “daily routine” or daily rituals. It embodies the traditional practices recommended in Ayurveda, designed to maintain harmony in both body and mind.

Click here for my recent blog: The three Ayurvedic morning rituals and a daily practice for a healthier you!

Mindful Energy Flow

Mindful Energy Flow is a short yet effective daily practice that integrates yoga, qigong and energy medicine. It turns stress and anxiety into vitality, balance and calmness.  Mindful Energy Flow awakens your body's healing power, activates and harmonises the qi and blood flow in the meridians (energy channels throughout the body).
The three important components are: Mindfulness, movement and breath. With regular daily practice, you will notice powerful long term benefits, improved vitality and overall wellbeing. 

Watch my video below, for this 6-minute daily practice. For further details, please download the Mindful Energy Flow pdf below.

Yoga & Mindfulness Classes and New Package Deals

Check out Holistic Wellness inspirational blogs

You can access previous newletters here

HolisticWellnessDivya.com