Welcome to fall!

According to Chinese medicine, autumn is associated with the Metal element, which governs organization, order, setting limits and protecting boundaries.  As the sunlight dims, we return to a lifestyle of routine and begin more introspective, indoor activities.

During the summer, which is ruled by the Fire element, our lives tend to be more spontaneous. We travel, wear light clothing and spend time playing outdoors. Fall, on the other hand, is a time of organizing and for returning to a more structured lifestyle.  This time of year is perfect for organizing your home and creating a routine that includes time for self care. Scheduling in exercise, meditation and time for healthy meals makes it easier to achieve these goals.   

The lung and large intestine are the internal organs related to fall and the Metal element.  To maintain wellness during this season it is important to keep these organs healthy and strong.

Here are some strategies for doing so:

1.) Practice breath work- Qi Gong and yogic breathing help tone both the lungs and the large intestine.  Deep, slow, conscious breathing strengthens the physical body and also heals the emotional body by releasing constrained emotions and stuck energy. 

2.) Wear a scarf- This sounds simple, but it’s really important this time of year.  A scarf doesn’t have to be thick or heavy, but it should cover the neck. In Chinese medicine the large intestine meridian runs up the arm, across the shoulder, into the neck and ends at the nose.  It’s important to keep this meridian warm and protected in order to prevent “cold winds” from entering the body and causing respiratory illness.

3.) Eat according to the season- While we naturally consume more cold, raw fruits and vegetables in the summer, eating these foods in the fall creates dampness, which is stored in the lungs. Dairy products do the same.  It’s best to avoid these foods during the fall and instead enjoy warm soups, stews and baked or steamed fruits and vegetables. In addition, it’s beneficial to eat small amounts of pungent foods like garlic, onions, ginger, cayenne, cinnamon and fennel which reduce dampness and keep the lungs clear and strong.

As always, it’s best to eat foods native to the season.  Winter squashes, carrots, sweet potatoes, apples, pears, wild rice and broccoli, which are abundant during this time are especially beneficial.  Also, hot herbal teas with chai spices, ginger and lemon warm the body and will help keep you balanced and healthy this harvest season. 

Most importantly, enjoy the changing season, the beautiful warmth of fall light and the richly colored leaves.