[Source: @hannahmcswain via Twenty20]

Gaining the ability to mold and manipulate metals was one of humanitys great leaps forward. It has allowed us to build and make things, like tall buildings and great ships, that have strength and permanence to weather the vicissitudes of nature and time. So much technology that makes our lives comfortable todaycars, trains, computers, and moredepend on it, too.

Also, metal carries energy better than any other element. Electrical wires and circuit boards are evidence of this. Metal is also necessary for life, and our bodies must have metals like zinc, copper, and iron in the right amounts to function properly. Thus, when we connect to the energy of metal, we are connecting to a source of strength and to a means of energy circulation.

In our lives, we can take on the characteristics of metal to make ourselves stronger, both mentally and physically. When we exercise in a gym, we can pump iron to make our muscles big and strong, and we will become weak and listless if we dont consume enough metal micronutrients, like iron and copper. But, more importantly, our minds need to take on the traits of metal to develop strength of character and the drive to succeed. Otherwise, we are just like a building built of sticks instead of steel beams, and we will fall over when the first storm comes along.

But how does one develop true metal, a character that maintains drive and tenacity, even when everything seems to be going terribly wrong? This is a very important question since this trait is what allows achievement and separates greatness from mediocrity. Fortunately, this is something you can nurture within yourself; you do not have to be born with a steely personality. Focusing on the energetic nature of metal can help you build it within yourself.

To bring the elemental energy of metal into your daily life, I recommend having some metal objects in your home, such as bronze sculptures, metal picture frames, or brass fixtures. However, you dont need these things to bring this energy into yourself. The standing meditation below uses very common metal objectscoins or even your favorite jewelryto connect with metal and to build strength in your physical energy center, the dahnjon. Heres what you do:

While this exercise will indeed strengthen your physical body, it will also strengthen your resolve. At first, it will not be comfortable and you will need to force yourself to complete 5 minutes and then to add minutes later on. By adding time little by little, you will teach yourself to accept temporary, minor discomfort for the sake of a goal.

As you practice this, try to also watch yourself and your own character closely as you go about your day. When do you choose comfort in favor of moving forward toward your goals? If you are willing to take yourself out of the comfort zone little by little while moving toward your goals and visions, you will also be moving yourself toward the highest version of yourself.

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Five Elements Nature Meditation: Metal for Strength and Determination - Patheos