Nurturing Balance in Autumn: Seasonal transitions in TCM
Do you feel it? The slight nip in the air, the cooler drier weather, the shorter days? The transition from summer to fall is not easy for some as they struggle with letting go of the longer days and warmer weather. Yet, others welcome the beauty of the fall season, the changing of the leaves, and the crisper weather. No matter where you fall, the principles of TCM can help you transition smoothly.
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the fall season is associated with the Metal element and encompasses the Lungs and Large Intestine. The Metal element governs organization, order, communication, the mind, setting limits, and protecting boundaries. It is time to finish projects that were started in the Spring and harvest the bounty of our hard work. It is also a time to transition inwards both physically and mentally. Just like the trees in fall let go of their leaves, it’s also a time for us to let go of old, negative thoughts we have bottled up over time and unburden ourselves by welcoming change, introspection, and self-reflection with open arms.
The Lungs & Large Intestine
The Lungs and Large Intestine work as a team and play a vital role during the fall season. Our body’s defensive energy, otherwise known as Wei Qi, is dependent on the health and strength of our Lungs and Large Intestine. Failing to take care of these organs can put us in a vulnerable position during the winter. Optimizing our immunity will help prevent the common cold, flu, shortness of breath, seasonal allergies, and nasal congestion that are common this time of year.
Emotionally, the Lungs relate to unprocessed grief and sadness. Suppressing these emotions can damage the Lungs and foster illness. Processing these feeling with an acupuncturist, therapist, or meditating is key to optimal health. When Lung Qi is balanced, there is clarity of thought and inner peace. The energy associated with the Large Intestine allows us to let go of things physically and emotionally. Someone who suffers from constipation or feels more uptight, stubborn, or has a negative, half-empty versus the half-full attitude likely has an imbalance in this meridian.
Tips to Help You Transition into Autumn
Here are some tips to mentally prep yourself for the upcoming season:
Finish projects you began in the summer. Bring structure to your life by practicing mindfulness and planning.
Make your space cozy & clean. Now that you’ll be spending more time indoors, o through your closet, home, and garage, and declutter. Retain things that mean the most to you and sell or donate the rest.
Spend time meditating & journaling. Self-care and time for reflection allow us to uncover and address negative feelings. Journaling your thoughts can help bring clarity & closure to things you may be harbouring.
Shift to a fall diet. Every season is important to eat seasonally. Fall is no different. Focus on warming foods and food that will moisten the Lungs. Read my post Foods & Herbs for Autumn Health where I’ll visit this topic in greater depth
As our bodies begin to transition from the Yang of summer to the Yin of winter, we need to take things slowly, be more mindful, and present. Tune into what you love, surround yourself with people you feel the most connected to, and focus on what serves you and adds value to your life. Reject the rest.
Need help boosting your immune system, increasing your energy, or transitioning to the new season? Book your acupuncture session today!