Inspiration // Reality
Have you ever had a creative idea that feels so close—something you’re passionate about bringing into the world—but each time you reach for it, it slips just out of reach?
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Metal element represents both the lungs and the large intestine. The lungs are where we draw in inspiration—literally through breath—and metaphorically from the air, from spirit, or the intangible realms of imagination. This is our connection to the ethereal, to dreams and ideals that inspire us but remain elusive, always slightly beyond grasp.
I’ve been feeling this process while working on a new project: choreographing a dance for a beautiful piece of music composed by my friend, Catherine. We’ll be debuting it in December (more details soon for my ATX friends!). As I immerse myself in the music, images and movement flow freely through my imagination, unbound by physical limits. It’s exhilarating—limitless. But when I open my eyes and start to choreograph, the hard work begins. How do I take those grand visions and distill them into something real, something that fits within the constraints of human form and time?
This process reflects the essence of the Metal element—holding high aspirations while grounded by reality. Maybe you’ve experienced this, whether through writing, cooking, or a fleeting daydream interrupted by life’s demands. It’s the dance between our desire to transcend and the reality of our earthly limitations.
When in balance, this Metal quality gives us focus and determination. It helps us hold ourselves to high internal standards—not for external accolades, but to become the best version of ourselves. It’s the trait I notice in many successful people: they achieve milestones, yet their focus remains on self-mastery. The satisfaction isn’t in the praise but in knowing they’ve pushed to their highest potential.
When out of balance, however, Metal can show up as perfectionism—rigid, overly controlling, or draining. It can also lead to feeling uninspired or disconnected from purpose.
If you’ve been feeling out of sync, start by coming back to your breath. Breathwork reconnects us to our bodies and soothes our nervous systems.
Here’s a small exercise to reset:
Wake up your lungs: Try this gentle movement to expand your chest and ribs.
Breathe with intention: Set a timer for five minutes and focus on your breath—following each inhale and exhale as closely as possible. Let your mind stay with the simplicity of the breath.
This practice brings you back to your body, grounding you in the present while gently nourishing your inner world.
As we move through autumn, I’ve been thinking a lot about letting go—releasing what no longer serves us. But letting go is only one side of the equation. The other side is inviting in. From your highest self, what do you want to welcome into your life?
Not everything deserves a place within us. This applies to thoughts, media, and food alike.
Take a moment to reflect: What is the most precious, high-quality energy or idea you want to allow in?
