5 Animals Play: About the Crane

The Five Animals Play (Wuqinxi) is based on the theories of the Five phases. The Five Phases describes the cyclical transformations between Yin and Yang. The Crane corresponds with the Metal phase.
In Chinese Medicine the Metal phase is associated with the Lung Network. The dynamic of this network is outward and downward distributing Qi and fluids throughout the body. Because of this link between the Lungs and the Metal Phase, the Crane's movements come from the chest and involve extension and settling.
I also think of the initial dynamic that is described in the 'Jade Pendant Inscription on Qigong' which, in part, says:
'...storage leads to extending outward, extending leads to settling downward...'
The influence of Lung Network extends to the surface of the body, where the defensive Qi circluates, controlling the opening and closing of the pores. So in addition to extension to the limbs, the Crane's movements should open outward to the surface of the body.
The emotions connected to the Metal phase are slightly complicated. Grief is commonly the single word summary of Metal phase emotions. But only describes an emotion experienced when the Metal Phase is unbalanced. A broader understanding relates this phase to giving and receiving value. Grief can only be experienced when something of value is lost. Valuing of oneself and of others involves an outward and inward dynamic that mirrors the physical function the of lungs, breathing air in and out. Supporting the Lung network through the movements of the Crane can smooth this dynamic, allowing for, as Buddhists would put it, non-attachment.