Blog

Living in a Metal-World

The metal element in feng shui relates to hard, black-and-white structures.

In the bigger cities, the metal element is prevalent represented by the tall buildings made of glass and concrete, metal fencing, transit systems and hydro wires overhead.

Modern society demands that we step-up to the metal demands on our time, money and even our health. It is hardcore: we live in metal cities, we focus on metal properties for security in our lives, we tap into metal components to stay ‘connected’. We even have apps to monitor our exercise and ‘they’ try to connect us with other like-minded individuals…

Mobile, smart devices have changed our lives, and we aren’t going back. Society has accepted a new habit: to check-in, and STAY checked-in; whether the rationale is ‘good customer service’, tweet activities to our followers, or check on family. Whatever it is that ‘can’t wait’… must be done NOW! Each house, and each individual in each house, has multiple devices to tap into at any time of the day or night (and, many of us do take that opportunity…to check-in anytime).

‘Hot spots’ are everywhere (even at my hair stylists’). Technology oozes from every corner, looming overhead – intimidating like a storm cloud.

How does all this affect us?

We still sit passively for endless hours in front of our computers. In addition, many of us are head-down, anti-social and oblivious to all, on our tablets when we’re out of the house.

And, we seem to need constant upgrades – why do we embrace new technology when we haven’t mastered the previous level? We seem to be driven to excel or amplify our ‘metal-qualities’ to a point of self-destruction. Am I the only one that is frustrated?

It is a bit like a chant, a calling…

“Come, my dearie… It’s so convenient: order online, tap in to find out, check your email, ‘reply’ to people to connect to, ‘like’ the post, ‘share’ with a friend”…

Technology can be a non-stop circus of activity!

So, what is driving the insatiable need to be the first one to ‘know’? Or, the first one to ‘see’ and ‘hear’ what is going on in the world?

Metal-type people enjoy following rules and guidelines set out for them. They make great safety officers, bankers, surgeons, lawyers, and thrive in a corporate family with policies and procedures. They love computers and technology and many find a career working in the IT industry. They are the back bone of society. Computer technology and communications rely on this metal-mentality.

But, even metal people need balance.

I’ve written many times about the need to find supports, and find balance, in all five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal and water. It is no wonder that an individual can become handicapped by not cultivating qualities from the other elements. Ignoring the warnings about ‘too much is too much’… this behavior has the potential to cut our lives short, and yet, we continue to tap in.

Coping skills are required when living in a metal-zone.

It is a treadmill out there. And, we have choices whether we choose to ‘log in’ to the circus, or ‘log out’.

What it is doing is taking us one step away from our loved ones, the people that mean the most. Years ago, when my husband travelled for business, he would not have a chance to check in with the family for (sometimes) several weeks. But now, when my husband is away for a week now, I enjoy the Skype chats we have each night.

Technology is not all bad, as we have a choice how we use it.

I’m on a mission to educate the masses to live a full life, and be happy. I’m sharing an image that was sent directly to my in-box. A visit with Grandma, and the family is so busy checking their devices, I wonder why they are there.

This behavior is so common regarding the same people we rub elbows with everyday: the lady at the park with a dog and two kids in a stroller – that won’t look up from her phone, the dog walker with 3 large dogs on leashes and one tied to her waist – that won’t tear the phone from her ear… and the mom who is irritated with her child – that he can’t quite ride a bike and needs her help. We can’t stop the technology race, but we can choose how to use it in our lives.

We can all choose to live without being connected twenty-four hours a day.

You can choose.

Choose the best way to life your life. And, if you are lucky enough to have a grandmother, give her a call.

All the best, Kathryn

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About Kathryn Wilking

Author, Home Stager, Feng Shui Consultant

Kathryn has inspired women for more than a decade to take charge of their lives; arranging their environment, home and office, to support a positive, prosperous lifestyle. She provides informative tips and talks to organizations and small groups through her Facebook Group and Blog Posts and recorded podcasts. Contact her today for more info about bringing the practical application of Feng Shui into your space.

Her book, Practical Feng Shui for the Office; never goes out of style!
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