An important part of TCM, of Holistic Medicine, is living in harmony with one’s environment. That includes making changes in accordance with the seasons. We can better understand the season by looking at it through the lens of balance between yin and yang.
Summer was the most yang time of year. Heat, exuberance, activity - these are all yang qualities. Having reached its peak, that outward energy now begins to return inward. This is the beginning of autumn. Shorter days, cooler and dryer weather, and a change in activity that reinforce our connection with the earth. This is a time to shift focus from yang to emerging yin energy.
Balancing the elements
In terms of the 5 elements, or phases, fall is the metal time of year. Metal comes from the earth. We use metal to reap the harvest. It also corresponds to the organs of the lungs and large intestines. It’s a good time to strengthen these organs with food and herbs to avoid respiratory and digestive infections.
Foods for thought
Root vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and turnips help stabilize and calm at this time. Pears and apples are good for the lungs, especially with a dry cough. (Especially baked with spice like cinnamon). Nuts and seeds like almonds, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and sesame seeds nourish yin and help promote bowel movements. Mushrooms are good for boosting the immune system and are full of antioxidants. Cruciferous foods support the lungs and boost immunity. Grains like brown rice, oats, and millet will strengthen digestion and increase energy. And spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger are gently warming. That’s important at this cooler time of year. They also promote circulation, digestion, and comfort.
It also matters how you prepare the food. You’ll want less cold and raw foods which are too cold for this time of year and will inhibit digestion. Foods should be steamed, simmered, and slow-cooked. These methods preserve nutrients and make the food easier to digest.
If you’re in doubt about a food, just ask yourself, does this make sense seasonally? Clam chowder and chili bake-offs, Lobster rolls, and pumpkin spice all make sense this time of year. But keep in mind also, general eating advice as well.
Enjoy Your Food
Eat food you enjoy and with a positive attitude. It’s important you take time to relax while eating. Chew your food well, and don’t overeat. Eat slowly. Put your hand over your belly and check. Stop eating just before full. Don’t have too much liquid with your meal, it impairs digestion, and choose good foods, real foods - not processed foods full of sugars and chemicals.
General Tips for Fall
Some final tips - notice and enjoy the changes of fall. Although fall is cooler, it’s also drier than summer, so make sure you get enough hydration. Be mindful of the cooler weather, the changing sunlight, and the changes in the trees. There is much beauty this time of year, noticing it and taking it in is good for your spirit, and will help your intuition make better intentional choices for yourself. Thank you.
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