Can you feel it? Fall is here. It may not feel like it in sunny San Diego, but the days are most definitely getting shorter. Fall marks the beginning of the yin cycle, causing us to be a little less carefree and promoting the desire to go inward.
According to Chinese medicine, the season of autumn is associated with the element of metal, which manifests as organization, structure, order, and the establishment of boundaries. The fall season is the time to finish projects and harvest the bounty of your hard work. It is also time to prepare for the internal time ahead that comes with winter. The time to reflect on your internal mind and body is here. Today, we go over some tips to help you support your health during this season.
Chinese Medicine and the Fall Season
Autumn is the time when the trees shed their leaves to make fertile ground for the potential growth in spring. It is the time for us to determine that which no longer serves us and go inward, ultimately make space for new growth and expansion.
In Chinese medicine, autumn is associated with the color white, the lungs, and the large intestine. Fall is also related to the emotion grief, which many of us experience when the season changes and summer ends. Along with grief is the emotion of letting go, which is often difficult for people who love summer. If you find these transitions difficult this is the perfect time to care for your body by taking supplementation, adjusting your nutrition, and scheduling healing sessions, such as acupuncture.
Nutrition Tips for Fall
The following is a list of foods and supplements to support the lungs and the large intestine during the fall season:
Magnesium citrate (take this before bed to induce restful sleep and encourage regular morning bowel movements)
Flax seeds (purchase these whole and grind them at home to get the maximum nutrient benefits)
Omega 3 fatty oils (such as high-quality fish oil)
Probiotics (spore based are best)
Warm water and lemon (taken first thing in the morning)
Oatmeal
Chia seeds
Lung QI is supported by consuming the following:
Pears
Cauliflower
Sweet potato
Yam
Pumpkin
Rice
Oats
Dates
Fresh ginger
To purchase the high-quality supplements mentioned above, feel free to click here. If you are feeling out of balance with the season shift, we also recommend scheduling an acupuncture session.
Are you ready for your seasonal tune up? Call 619-356-1225 to schedule a session today.