The Energy of Fall
In ancient China and Japan peopled structured their lives to live in harmony with nature; their practices and eating habits changed with the change of seasons. Living as part of the natural world, they maintained balance and optimal health.
The fall season is associated with the metal element “which governs organization, order, communication, the mind, setting limits and protecting boundaries. It’s a good time to finish projects” that were begun in spring and summer. It’s also a time for self-introspection and releasing that which is no longer needed.
The organs associated with the fall are lung and large intestine. The lungs are very sensitive to wind and cold, so it’s important to dress for the weather. The lungs also control the wei-qi or protective energy which runs just under the skin and helps to warm the body. When we catch a cold or flu the wei-qi has been weakened. This also explains why we feel cold.
The energy of the large intestine helps us to release physical waste and old ideas or mindsets which no longer serve us. Like spring, this is a perfect time to clean house to prepare for the change in weather.
Autumn brings shorter days, cooler weather and harvest time. Some healthy tips for fall:
- Eat the foods and vegetables that grow locally this time of year
- Eat cooked food not raw. This is a great time for soups and stews.
- Get plenty of sleep.
Enjoy the Energy of Fall: Autumn and Traditional Chinese Medicine
