The days are getting shorter, and there is a slight chill in the air, heralding a season’s change. Autumn is the beginning of the Yin cycle, a time of harvest and preparation for the colder days ahead. It’s a time for organisation, a time for reflection and a time for ‘letting go’. It marks the end of the growing season, and signals a time to turn inward. Autumn returns us to our essence, and it is a good time for us to let of our old negative ways, our grief and our sadness, and embrace what is precious in our lives.
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, this season is associated with our Lungs. The Lung is considered to be the ‘tender’ organ, and as such easily injured by Cold and Wind. Our diet greatly affects this organ. A high consumption of cold, raw foods and dairy food can lead to the production of Damp and Phlegm In the body, which is stored in the Lungs. Pungent foods are recommended, so increase your intake of garlic, horseradish, ginger, mustard and onions. Of course, one of the best things we can do for our Lungs is enjoy the cool, crisp air outside, so go on, take a deep breath . . .
