Autumn is the season of the METAL element. Metal enables us to experience the quality of our lives, and imparts the powers of integrity and reflection.The energy of metal is downward, and it governs our ability to let go of what no longer serves us, and to connect to that which is of value to us. The emotion associated with the metal element is grief and sadness. With a metal imbalance we often get stuck in the aspect loss, and have trouble experiencing inspiration and levity. We can become emotionally heavy, and have difficulty letting go. A problem in the metal element often leaves us feeling deeply sad. We can also experience chronic disappointment with life, and can become overly judgmental and critical of self and others. The most common physical symptoms of a metal imbalance are constipation, diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, acne on the chin, dry skin, exzema psoriasis, trouble breathing, sinus infections, and frequent colds and flu.