As the air turns crisp and the days grow shorter, many of us start feeling the seasonal shift in more ways than one—hello dry skin, scratchy throat, and that all-too-familiar autumn cough! According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), these common issues are linked to “autumn dryness,” which can impact your lungs and overall well-being. But don’t worry—TCM has some great tips to help you stay balanced, healthy, and energized as we transition into fall.
Why is autumn yin season? In TCM, autumn is considered a time when yin energy (cool, nourishing energy) starts to grow, while yang energy (warm, active energy) begins to fade. This natural shift means we need to focus on “nourishing yin” during this season, which helps protect against dryness and keeps our lungs strong.
Let’s dive into some practical ways to keep yourself feeling great as the seasons change!
1. Dress for the Season—Stay Warm, Stay Cool
Autumn weather can be unpredictable—cool in the mornings and evenings, yet warm in the afternoon. TCM emphasizes protecting your lung qi, which can be easily disturbed by extreme temperatures. Layer up to stay warm without overheating. Just think: “A little cold is good, but too much will make you sick.”
2. Stay Positive—Mind Over Matter!
Did you know that in TCM, emotions are directly linked to physical health? Fall is a time when our energy naturally starts to turn inward. TCM teaches that the lungs are associated with grief, so if you find yourself feeling more emotional than usual, you’re not alone. To combat this, focus on uplifting activities—try a cozy fall concert, a favorite book, or some quality time with family to lift your spirits and keep your heart light.
3. Move Your Body—Gently
Cooler weather is perfect for outdoor exercise, but TCM recommends avoiding overly intense workouts that leave you drenched in sweat. Instead, opt for gentle movements like walking, Tai Chi, or swimming. Deep breathing exercises are also fantastic for nourishing lung qi—try 5-10 minutes of deep abdominal breathing every day.
4. Eat for the Season—Balance the Flavors
TCM teaches that food can be your best medicine, especially when it comes to protecting against “autumn dryness.” To nourish yin and keep your body hydrated, focus on sour and moisturizing foods like pears, sesame seeds, honey, and walnuts. And try to ease up on spicy foods like ginger and garlic, which can dry you out.
Want a quick list? Add these to your grocery cart:
- Sour Fruits: Apples, pomegranates, grapes
- Moisturizing Foods: Pears, white fungus, spinach
- Avoid: Excessively spicy foods like ginger and hot peppers
5. Autumn Teas & Soups—Your Secret Weapon
What’s better than a warm cup of tea or a cozy bowl of soup on a chilly fall day? In TCM, soups and teas are perfect for nourishing the body as it transitions to cooler weather. Try Chrysanthemum and goji berry tea for tired eyes and a dry throat or Monk fruit tea to soothe a nagging cough. And don’t forget light, soothing porridges like pear or almond porridge to hydrate your body from the inside out.
6. Sync Your Sleep with the Season
In TCM, living in harmony with nature is essential for maintaining balance. That means going to bed earlier to protect your yin energy and waking up early to prevent the cold from seeping into your body. And if you’re feeling tired midday, take a quick nap to recharge—just 20 minutes can make a big difference!
In summary, autumn is a season of harvest, both for nature and your body. By focusing on nourishing your yin, staying active in a balanced way, and eating the right foods, you can set yourself up for a healthy, illness-free season—and give yourself the foundation to thrive when spring rolls around!
Whether it’s the food you eat, the air you breathe, or the activities you enjoy, taking care of yourself this autumn doesn’t have to be complicated—just remember to listen to your body and the season.
Let’s welcome autumn with balance, warmth, and lots of yin-nourishing self-care!