5 TIPS TO LIVE IN HARMONY WITH AUTUMN
We all know that as the weather and seasons change throughout the year, our body can also go through some changes. In Chinese Medicine, reaching optimal health is helped when we live in accordance with the seasons. Different seasons can affect how our body functions. Here are our top tips to help keep your body nourished, supported and balanced throughout this autumn season!
1 – EAT WARMING, NOURISHING
In autumn, our body needs foods that are more warming and gentle to help support our digestive system. Throughout the hotter months, it is common to eat more cooling foods, like salads, raw vegetables and cold drinks. But when autumn and winter hit, we need to shift to cooked foods (steaming is a really great way to cook vegetables and also keep in all the amazing nutrients). Vegetables like potatoes, carrots, pumpkin, onions, ginger and garlic are amazing to warm our body and digestive system to keep our body nourished all over.
2 – RUG UP
It’s not always cold in autumn (but who knows, Melbourne weather is always so temperamental) but wearing jackets and/or scarves that cover up our neck is really beneficial for our body. In Chinese Medicine, pathogens (cold and flus) can commonly enter through meridians that run through our neck and upper back, as these are the most superficial channels of the body. Our skin is our first defence from pathogens and our skin directly links to our lungs and respiratory system, so protecting our neck can be a great way to protect our body against illness.
3 – SUPPORT YOUR MIND + BODY
Autumn is a time where the world around us slows down. We have just finished an energetic, and often exhausting summer. Now is the time to look after ourselves and give our body a well-needed rest. We need to find things that make us feel good and support our mind and body. Whether that be meditation, yoga, journaling or maybe something creative, find something to do that is just for you!
4 – LET GO
Autumn relates to the Lung and Large Intestine and in Chinese Medicine, these organs relate to letting go and emotional release. Often in Autumn, we can find emotions that we have been holding on to, can manifest in a physical form. Coughs or recurrent colds can be common, as well as digestive signs such as constipation. This is a time to let go of emotions or physical things that no longer serve us. It can be hard, but now is the season to try. Think about how all the trees let go of their leaves!
5 – BREATHE
Breathe in the amazing fresh air. Look around you at all of the magic happening in nature. The leaves are changing and falling. Spend some time outside and breathe deeply, enjoy the space and world around you. Sit in silence and take 5 deep breaths, fill and nourish your body with clean oxygen.
With gratitude,
Nicole (Acupuncturist)