5 Element Theory: Season of Metal For Dogs
The Season of Metal Prioritizes Lungs & Large Intestine
September 22 - December 7 Season of universal oneness.
Autumn is the season of the metal element. This is the season of contraction and moving inwards, of dryness, and the Lungs and Large intestine are the organs associated with this element. You’d think this could mean that this is the season that the Lungs and Large intestine are at their strongest as it’s their element, but alas it works the other way around! It’s at this time of the year that the Lungs are at their most vulnerable and most likely to be affected by wind, cold and dryness.
It’s a time of year you may see respiratory issues flair up. Dryness of the skin, mucus membranes, even elimination systems. The season of Metal governs the “PO” — Life.
Traditional Chinese Medicine tells us that grief lives in the lungs. It also tells us that Skin is the Third Lung — and thus we may notice skin changes.
Typical Traits: Have good fur and coats, broad chests. They may seem aloof, but they like things in order (rules) and will attempt to control order in others. Confident, independent, smart and easily trainable. These dogs are quick to “let go” of a moment or an incident.
Organs: Lung & Large Intestine
Disease: Respiratory issues, coughing, reverse sneezing, asthma. Dry skin can also be a problem. We can see these dogs often become constipated due to lack of moisture. (Fire Season controls Metal — so if Fire season was excess you could see moisture deficiency issues in the Season of Metal)
Time of Day : 3am - 5am — Energy flow is blocked affecting the lower intestine. Address emotional blockages.
Color: White
Senses: Smell
Sound: weeping, whining
Smell: rotten
Common Breeds: German Shepherds, Border Collies, Kelpies
When Out of Balance: Grief, sense of loss, insecurity, loss of balance random snapping at other dogs, ea
Shallow breathing or difficulty breathing may be present. infections, snoring, wheezing, sense of smell reduced. Persistent whining, excess drool
Dogs with excess -- these dogs may seem stubborn and inflexible. Diarrhea, phlegm, mucus, inconsolable grief.
Dogs Deficient - These dogs may seem bored, depressed, isolated with an inability to move forward. They may seem stuck in patterns. They may express more disagreement, grief, become moody, and withdraw from attention and affection. These dogs may be difficult to connect with. Dry Skin, Dry fur. Constipation.
Foods —Season of Fall
Moisture in food is important but especially true for those with deficiency, dryness. But this will be the time to begin moving into warming foods. Senior dogs especially may need more warm elements.
Proteins include: lamb, chicken, venison
Vegetables Include: squash, peppers, sweet potatoes
Roots and Spices: fresh ginger, turmeric
Consider some healthy grains — oats, quinoa
Essential Oil Choices For Metal Dogs
Warming Oils: Ginger, Thyme, Basic, Black Pepper, Cinnamon, Clove to name but a few.
Respiratory Oils: Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Marjoram, Citronella.
Also consider Rose, Frankincense, Myrrh, Clary Sage, Cypress, Dill, Elemi
The Seasons of 5 Element Theory:
Season of Earth
Season of Fire
Season of Water
Season of Wood
Journaling your dog’s behavior and health patterns is a great way to consider changes that will help support their wellbeing.