When we can be inspired and inspire others, as well as experience meaning in every aspect of life, we are in the flow of metal element energy associated with the fall season. We may typically find inspiration when we are facing a problem and we need a solution. If our metal element energy is coherent, we are able to tap into new ways of looking at the problem transforming our anxiety or frustration into new possibilities. Inspiration may be thought of as having a connection with the divine or an element of the sacredness of life which are also metal element qualities. Inspired is then an appropriate description for choral works of art like Handel’s Messiah, Shakespeare’s plays or the movie Shakespeare in Love, a great dinner menu or a book idea where different ideas came together to create something new etc. In all of these examples metal element plays its role instructing the receiver with an idea and the coherent receiver doing something concrete with the ideas.
Use the quality of inspiration to both build and use your metal element energy (which you also know is building those other intentions). Here are 3 ways to activate your qualities of inspiration.
Think of a problem you may have and write it out so that you have the problem clearly defined for yourself. Next, spend time looking at works of art. Everyone appreciates art in different ways, but gaze a something that holds your interest and ask yourself what is the artist trying to communicate or convey in the work of art; how does the message relate to your defined problem? What new perspectives do you now have for your problem?
You may also do the same exercise with a piece of music that you drawn to especially something classical and without words or lyrics.
Lastly, spend time outdoors in a natural setting where you can watch mother nature in action. My favorite setting is High Park in west end Toronto or the Lakeshore board walks. Actively appreciate what you notice in the setting that you find yourself in. I was recently noticing how swans foraging for minnows appeared playful or at least humorous. Another variation on the appreciation theme is to notice the weather as a backdrop to the drama you may be experiencing in your problem. However you get to it, you will be in the graced state of appreciation, which somehow mushes up our brain waves to receive – inspiration.
How do you get into the flow of inspiration? What inspires you?
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