Autumn has officially begun. The air is crisp and cool, the winds are picking up, and leaves are starting to change color and fall. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Autumn signifies the beginning of the Yin time of year. It is bringing us inward and telling us to slow down before we hibernate for the Winter. Personally, it’s my favorite time of the year!
In Autumn, all things in nature become fully mature and ready to harvest. The season helps us look inward and reflect. Try using this time to focus on personal, work, and life goals and create plans. Also, shed any unnecessary energy along with things you no longer need. Declutter and donate or get rid of old clothing, objects in the house, and old computer files.
Element: Metal
In TCM, Autumn is the season of the Metal element. There are certain characteristics to the Metal element listed below.
Season: Autumn
Climate: Dryness
Taste: Pungent
Color: White
Emotion: Sadness
Sound: Crying
Organ: Lung and Large Intestine
Sensory part: Nose
Tissue: Skin
According to the book, ‘Rhythms of Change’ by Mary Saunders the following are some characteristics of the Metal element when it’s in balance and out of balance.
Metal Imbalance:
- Shortness of breath, respiratory allergies, or skin rashes
- Dry skin and mucous membranes
- Frequent and lingering illness like colds, coughs, sore throats
- Excessive grief and melancholy
- Disorganized, unable to keep commitments, sedentary
- Symptoms worsen in Autumn or dry climates
Metal Balance:
- Balanced attachment: knowing when to hold on and when to let go
- Moist, supple skin and mucous membranes
- Strong immune system, seldom ill, recovers quickly
- Physically active with strong lungs and voice
- Reflects inwardly
- Strong, principled, living by inner values
How to Stay Healthy!
1. Scarves and Hats
Autumn is when we are most likely to get sick! For optimal health during this time, rest with the sunset and rise with the dawn. In other words, more sleep and rest is important as we get ready for Winter. Also, keep your body protected from the change of weather by covering your neck and head with a scarf and hat. In TCM, these areas are the easiest ways wind-cold-damp invasions can enter our body and cause us to get sick. So buy that fluffy scarf and help out your immune system! We want to go into the Winter season healthy and strong so that we don’t have lingering health issues like colds, coughs, and sore throats all through the Winter.
2. Foods
Start to incorporate warm foods and drinks during this time. Cook foods longer and at lower temperatures. In addition, excess dryness harms the Metal element, so include foods that moisten the respiratory tract and intestines. This includes foods like unsweetened coconut milk, olive and coconut oils, avocado, sesame seeds, spinach, seaweed, honey, milk, butter, dark-green leafy veggies, and congee. White colored foods and pungent spicy flavors are especially beneficial during this season. Foods like turnip, leek, cabbage, parsnips, cauliflower, potato, sauerkraut, onion, garlic, and ginger are also great!
A favorite food that comes to mind for the Autumn season are pears. Pears are cooling and moistening to the lungs. Baked pears drizzled with honey and sprinkled with cinnamon are a delicious treat!
3. Breathe
Remember, Autumn is when we’re most susceptible to illness, so it’s important to keep the Lung organ healthy and strong during this time. According to “The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Medicine,” lung energy needs to be “full, clean, and quiet”. Practicing breathing exercises to enhance the Lung Qi is beneficial this season.
I recommend daily breathing meditations or belly breathing to help expand and fill the lungs. For example, five deep belly breaths at night before bed can help nourish the Lungs and also calm the body and mind preparing us for sleep.
Another great exercise is the Qigong Lung Immune Boosting routine. Doing this a few times a week can help strengthen the Lungs and immune system. A link to Master Liu He’s Qigong exercise is below:
https://kanodiamd.com/immune-boost-qigong-exercise-for-lung-function-video/
As the extra sunlight and long days of summer come to an end, many of us might experience Grief which is the emotion associated with the Metal element. Not to mention all the other reasons why we may be grieving. Since Autumn is the start of the Yin time of year, draw inward, reflect, and heal. Also, have patience with yourself and honor this time. It is a perfect excuse to snuggle up to a good book and cup of tea. Happy Autumn equinox!
