Transition With The Seasons: TCM & Autumn
Dr. Shawne J. Lopes, DACM, LAc
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There was temperance in eating and drinking. Their hours of rising and retiring were regular and not disorderly and wild. By these means the ancients kept their bodies united with their souls, so as to fulfill their allotted span completely, measuring unto a hundred years before they passed away.
- Huang Di Nei Jing / The Yellow Emperor’s Classic
Autumn has arrived, and with it shorter days and cooler temperatures. Some of us are already feeling the natural urge to slow down and take things easier as we transition away from the higher energy days of Summer. Adjusting our lifestyle and daily activities to coincide with the seasonal changes is one of the best forms of self-care. The fall season is nature’s way of reminding us that change is constant. The falling leaves and cooler temperature is life’s signal to embrace being present and to let go of what no longer serves us.
Ancient cultures often associated fall with balance due to the equinox, when day and night have equal length. The celestial event symbolized the harmonious interplay of light and darkness, a natural representation of the balance of yin and yang. The shift in daylight hours was seen as a reminder of the cyclical nature of life and the importance of finding balance in all aspects of existence.
In Chinese Medicine, Fall is associated with the Metal element, which is associated with balance, precision, and clarity. The Lungs and the Large Intestine both belong to metal, and play a significant role in keeping our immune system strong. In TCM, the Lungs are responsible for taking in life-giving energy (Qi) from the air we breathe. Healthy lunch function is essential for a strong immune system as it helps filter out impurities and pathogens from the air. The Large Intestine is responsible for eliminating waste products from the body.
TCM emphasizes the importance of living in harmony with the natural cycles of the seasons.
1. Protect Your Neck
The neck is considered a vital area for protecting the body’s energy or Qi. The Lungs rule the skin and the opening and closing of our pores. As the wind and cold start to pick up, the back of the neck is particularly vulnerable to ‘wind invasion’. Wind invasion can contribute to muscle tension, headaches, and common cold. Keep your neck and upper back warm by wearing a scarf or warm jackets,
2. Practice Breathing Deeply
The simple act of breathing deeply and exhaling completely is something many of us take for granted, AND forget to do properly. Breathing deeply helps to ensure we are taking in the full amount of oxygen that is crucial for nourishing our cells and all that is vital to our body’s processes.
3. Take A Walk Outside
Spending time outdoors, particularly during the changing seasons, can help align our energy with nature. It’s also a simple yet powerful way to improve both physical and mental health. A walk outside can trigger the body’s relaxation response, lowering cortisol levels and promoting a sense of peace. The fresh air and sunlight can also strength the immune system by helping the body to produce vitamins D which plays a crucial role in immune function. A nature walk also offers an opportunity to practice mindfulness, focusing on the present moment and tuning into your senses.
4. Eat Warm, Local & Seasonal
Fall offers a bounty of nutrient-dense foods that can fortify our bodies against seasonal illness. Squash, pumpkins, cinnamon, walnuts, sweet potato, apples, all perfect Fall foods for staying warm and nourished.
5. Let That $@*# Go!
The graceful falling of leaves is a poignant reminder for us to embrace change and release what no longer serves us. Both physical and mental clutter can weigh us down, hindering our ability to live fully in the present moment. This natural Large Intestine’s main function is to “Let Go” of waste and toxins. Letting go allows us to free ourselves from emotional burden and overwhelm, creates space for peace and more positive experiences.
6. Practice Gratitude
While the specific rituals and customs may differ, the underlying principles of gratitude and appreciation during the Fall season resonates across many cultures. In many ancient East Asian cultures, the autumn season was revered as a time for reflection, gratitude, and harvest. Fall festivals deep rooted in emphasizing the importance of family, unity and the appreciation for nature’s bounty have carried on til this day. In Japanese culture, the autumnal equinox, known as “Shūbun no Hi”, is a time for honoring ancestors and reflecting on the cyclical nature of life. By embracing the spirit of gratitude during the fall season, we can foster positive emotions, improve mental health, and strengthen our connections with others.