Hello, Fall…

Fall is a time for letting go, grounding ourselves, and for turning inwards... away from the expansive energy of summer. It’s a time that our physical and emotional bodies change to reflect the shift in seasons around us. 

Chinese Medicine’s Perspective

Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda are both ancient systems of understanding our bodies. Both of these perspectives remain relevant and helpful, especially when it comes to understanding how we change with the seasons.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fall is associated with the element of metal. In our bodies, this element is thought to correlate with our lungs as well as our large intestine. Both of these organs maintain flow, and help us release what is no longer needed. Imbalances in our metal element, or dysfunction of these organs, tend to show up in the fall season.

How do you know if you have a metal imbalance?

Symptoms such as dry skin, acne, frequent colds, uncomfortable allergies,a sore throat, headaches, and sinus infections may point to an imbalance.

Specific foods to help with metal imbalances:

Try introducing a few of these items into your diet this fall…
radishes
carrots
apples
pears
garlic

Ayurveda’s Perspective

In Ayurveda, Fall is considered the "vata" season, associated with the element of air. The "vata" dosha (dosha: body and energy type) is most connected to our breathing, circulation, and our nervous system. Too much “vata” energy can make us feel anxious, light-headed, and ungrounded.

To keep vata in balance, think about “grounding” that loose, airy energy with warm and nourishing foods. Try cooking more soups and stews, prepare cooked or roasted veggies instead of raw, and use lots of warming spices such as ginger and turmeric.

How do our emotional bodies respond to Fall?

From a combined Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurvedic perspective, the fall may bring more feelings of:

restlessness
grief
& distraction

and may cause a yearning for:
organization
rest
& boundaries.

Some tips to stay balanced this fall include:

Spice up foods with seasonal herbs/spices
Practice grounding yoga
Stick with a routine, prioritizing optimal sleep and rest
Try not to avoid feelings of grief or sadness
Practice breath-work to clear your lungs
Visit an acupuncturist for support with issues related to your digestion or large intestine

If you find that implementing change for a healthier lifestyle is challenging, I’d love to help! Visit my website to learn more about health+stress management coaching, as well as private yoga instruction.

Come say hi on Instagram to find more health and wellness posts!

Wishing you well,

Jess