As nature changes from the heat and expansiveness of summer to the cooler temperatures and pulling back of energy during fall; we also experience natural changes in our physical bodies, health, and moods. During autumn we are more inclined to stay home at night, get more sleep and spend time in more serious pursuits. Living […]
The season of Fall reminds us to let go of that which is no longer needed. This is the metal season in Chinese Medicine; the time when Lung and Large Intestine Meridians are most active. I’ve spoken about Lung Meridian the last few weeks and would like to focus on Large Intestine Meridian today. The Large […]
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) considers man part of nature.Therefore, if you live in an area of changing seasons, the changes taking place in nature are also being mirrored inside of you. To maintain health and prevent illness during fall, TCM recommends that we eat foods which grow locally this time of year and prepare for […]
The Autumnal Equinox occurred on September 23rd this year. With the passing of the equinox, we begin to sense the dance of the subtle energies transforming summer into autumn. The nights are cooler, the days are shorter. The beautiful greenery of summer fades and the warm reds, oranges, and browns of fall emerge. Fall is […]
During this beautiful time of year when the earth element, represented by the spleen and stomach meridians is most active, it is important to support these energies for optimal health. I’ve spoken quite a bit about the stomach meridian, so I would like to focus on the spleen energies for today. The Daoist philosophy, which […]
The ancient Chinese believed that to maintain good health one should live in harmony with the seasons of nature. During this time of year, the intense heat and brightness of summer give way to a cooler, less intense autumn. It is a time of transition from leisure to more serious pursuits. Children are back in […]
Indian Summer (late summer) is the season of the earth element. It is a time to slow down and observe the abundance created during summer. It is also a time of self-reflection and self-awareness. With self-awareness, we can be cognizant of our needs and nourish ourselves. When our needs are met, we have the surplus […]
Though we are almost 2/3 through the season of summer, we still have hot, humid weather ahead of us. Staying hydrated and not overdoing activity during the hottest part of the day is important to avoid heat exhaustion. Some other important tips to stay safe are: Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing Protect against sunburn Wear […]
Adrenal fatigue often occurs when we are experiencing prolonged periods of excessive stress. During this time the adrenal glands produce excessive levels of cortisol to aid in the flight or fight response of the body. Since most of the time we are responding to everyday deadlines or relationship stresses, we are not physically fighting or […]
We’ve talked about three of the energy pathways most active in summer, the fire element. The fourth pathway or organ meridian is Pericardium. Though the pericardium (the sack around the heart) is not considered an organ in western medicine, it has an important role in Chinese Medicine. The Pericardium Meridian protects the heart both physically […]