When we are born, the first independent act we perform is to breathe. We are no longer tied to the umbilical and in this primal cry establish our independence as a human being. 
The Lungs (LU) in oriental medicine not only denote our in-breath, a process of getting ourselves together for the task ahead, but also describe our uniqueness of being. LU also denotes boundary – the creation of a barrier which tells us apart but yet across which we can communicate effectively. How similar is this to the air sacs in our lungs which exchange gases and give us the oxygen to create energy in the cells and give us our vitality?
The other side of this METAL pair is the Large Intestine (LI) and running parallel to the physiological function of removing waste is the notion that good LI energy will help us to remove outmoded structures in our lives, things, people or situations we no longer need. LI is the out-breath and in the state of relaxation this affords, enables us to seek and give forgiveness.
Metal has the quality of clean lines, a sharp edge and METAL people tend to have good personal boundaries, may dress in a fashion that gives them an iconic look and may make good teachers, trainers or managers. Additionally they are adept at ‘cutting out’ the dross in their lives and releasing past issues – no clutter under their beds!
Late Autumn and early Winter sees the fruit harden and compact, steeling itself for the cold ahead and contracting into the seed state only to be re-born in the Spring. Leaves fall from the trees and unwanted drains on the organism’s energy discarded. METAL embodies the phase of waning in autumn, when it is natural to feel existential grief for loss of youth and vigour. Healthy metal energy does not prevent the experience of grief but avoids us being trapped in that emotion and keeps us open to new possibilities.
But what can go wrong? Chronic LU conditions cause hardness (ossification) in the skeleton over time typically producing a kyphosis (hunchback). Remember the recluse Quasimodo who rung the bells of Notre Dame? Isolation, loneliness and withdrawal may be seen in chronic METAL imbalances. It is no surprise that, as we grow older and sometimes less sociable or isolated that pulmonary disorders predominate – bronchitis, pneumonia, pleurisy and emphysema are all geriatric conditions. With understanding shiatsu can help the old to navigate the autumn of their lives to reach acceptance, wisdom, mature individuality, humour and lightness of being.
Shiatsu not only offers support and touch to those who need it most, regular treatments can support LU vitality and make a difference to chronic spinal mis-alignment. An inability to extend the neck and stiffness in the rotator cuff may be helped by acupressure along the intercostal LU meridian. Poor circulation and fatigue are classic Lung symptoms. The skin which is the largest respiratory organ of the body may suffer from eczema, psoriasis or eruptive skin conditions such as acne. The former are alleviated by re-balancing the LU, the latter the LI.
LU points on the wrist and arm may help relieve the following conditions:
- Phlegm, cough, back, chest and shoulder pain
- Flu, headaches, runny nose and hidden grief
- Lack of vitality, immune defences down
Healthy elimination comes under large intestine function. However, problems with ‘letting go’ (of past hurts, for example), a change in residence and uncertainty 
about our job security may all relate to LI imbalances causing loose stools, constipation or IBS. Wherever symptoms have stagnation as a factor – constipation, menstrual pain, lumbar stiffness or sinusitis a LI diagnosis often accompanies:
- Are you stuck in old, limiting behaviour patterns?
- Unable to release disappointments from the past?
- Fear of failure, defensive pride or expectation of rejection?
All these patterns limit our experience and keep us stuck in unwanted life structures. “I want to leave (job, relationship, residence…), but I can’t….” is a theme often heard in LI diagnosis.
Shiatsu recognises that physical and emotional imbalances are related. Why not get your “Autumn MOT” by contacting Alan at the Glastonbury Shiatsu Practice (details below)? All treatments are performed clothed at floor level. An initial case diagnosis is followed by relaxing and invigorating stretches, rotations and reflex point treatment. Wear loose clothing and come prepared for a life-changing experience!
Alan Warr, a writer and practitioner in 5-element Zen Shiatsu describes the origins of shiatsu in Traditional Chinese Medicine. The concept of wellness where the shiatsu practiioner is only rewarded when his client is in rude health is contrasted with modern medicine where the GP’s existence depends on a population in chronic dis-ease.
Alan Warr (MSc DipShiatsu MRSS DipYoga) has 20years bodywork and yoga experience. He offers Zen shiatsu treatments for vitality and fertility and lectures on oriental medicine. He is a member of Well Mother Org and specializes in maternity care. He teaches a daily Vinyasa Flow class at Glastonbury Yogashala.
FFI and appointments info@glastonburyshiatsu.co.uk Tel: 07835522582
