What emotion is associated with the metal element characteristics?

The emotion associated with the metal element is grief. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), each of the five elements—wood, fire, earth, metal, and water—is linked to various emotional states. The metal element embodies qualities such as structure, order, and clarity, and is connected to the lungs and skin. Grief, as the emotional association, reflects the more introspective and often melancholic aspects of metal. This connection can manifest in emotional experiences related to loss and the processes of letting go.

In TCM, experiencing grief can affect the lungs and is linked to respiratory issues, as well as impacting overall vitality and defensive energy (Wei Qi). Recognizing this association allows practitioners to understand better the emotional components affecting their patients' physical health, thereby fostering a more holistic approach to treatment.