As the last of the leaves fall from the trees it is a reminder of what the season of Fall is about in Chinese Medicine. Fall is associated with the Lungs and Large Intestine meridians. It is govern by metal. This is the season for organizing, setting limits and boundaries. We are moving from the expansive Summer to the contractive nature of Fall. It is a good time to finish up any projects you started in and start new projects focusing on the internal, introspective parts of us. Time to cultivate body and mind.
The energy of the Fall is about letting go. We see this in nature as the trees begin to lose their leaves and prepare for their winter slumber. Where the soil is covered by the fallen leaves to begin decaying and bringing life by letting go and releasing. Fall is a good time to let go of anything we may be holding on to so that we can make room for new experiences that will help us grow and learn. A great time for self reflection.
Fall is also the season our lungs are more susceptible to respiratory illnesses and need more support as the season changes. Starting a mild immune boosting and lung support formula like gan mao ling is always a good idea in the fall and spring seasons. Some foods to incorporate during this time are pears, apples, dark leafy greens, onions, garlic, sweet potatoes, and parsnip. Spices like bay leaves, black pepper, chili, cardamom, cinnamon, and turmeric. Eating warm stews or soup nourishing the whole body.
I think COVID has taught us how important self care is to ourselves. The importance of introspection and letting go of things we had come to expect or subconsciously follow. And the importance of community- communing together as we head into the season of Thanksgiving next week. And what that looks like in each of your lives.
I am grateful to back here in Boston to heal and support each of you in your journeys forward.