Do you always try to do the right thing? Would your friends say that you seem quiet and guarded when first meeting you? Are you the person who’s sensitive to medications, even things like caffeine? Sounds like your primary element is Metal.

In East Asian medicine, the universe is made up of 5 elements, also called phases. These elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water, are the building blocks of our environment, including us. We are each a unique mix of all the elements, but one of them is primary. Learning your primary element can give you personalized tools for managing stress and living a healthier, happier life. Instead of doing ALL THE THINGS, or getting overwhelmed and doing nothing, you’ll learn which lifestyle hacks will give you the most bang for your buck.

Metal people are focused, sensitive and perfectionistic. You probably have pale, almost translucent looking skin, as compared to others of your ethnicity. You’re definitely an introvert, but once you warm up to people you’re excited to share all your deepest thoughts and feelings, of which you have a lot.

Because of your sensitivity, you can easily get overwhelmed in certain environments, and when spending too much time with other people. This can make you sad and melancholy. Getting weepy and having emotional releases through tears is a common occurrence for you. Metal types are the most likely to have had health struggles as children, everything from asthma, eczema and allergies, to tummy troubles and recurring infections. Any of the types can develop autoimmune diseases, or other chronic inflammatory conditions like fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue or Lyme disease. But Metal types seem to be especially susceptible. And when you’re stressed, these conditions will flare.

More than other types, you’re very aware of what’s going on in your body, so you’re less likely to push yourself too hard. However, you can get in the habit of using your perfectionism to create a diet and lifestyle that’s too restrictive. You may be afraid of eating certain foods because they could cause a negative reaction, or become so rigid about your schedule that you never stay up late to visit with friends. This over-protection of your energy and health can actually backfire. By not eating a wide variety of food your microbiome will suffer over the long term, and getting so strict with yourself just adds stress. 

Your secret weapons against stress? Deep breathing, meditation and mindful movement like yoga or tai chi. These will calm your sensitive nervous system, which in turn balances your body’s immune response. Finding time for a daily practice will go a long way to managing both your mental and physical stressors.

Eucalyptus essential oil is your best buddy. Diffuse it into the air all day, or dilute it in a carrier oil and rub into your chest to open your Lungs and strengthen your immune system.

The more often you do all of this, the better you’ll feel.