Fall in Chinese Medicine: Preparing Body and Mind for Winter

The first chills of winter are already arriving this weekend... although in Chinese medicine, we have officially been in autumn since August 7th. The days are shortening, the nights are getting cooler, and the leaves are turning a red-orange hue as nature gradually enters dormancy. As it prepares for winter's rest, it rebuilds its reserves to bloom better in the coming spring. Autumn, located between summer, the most Yang season characterized by activity and movement, and winter, the most Yin season, dedicated to rest and energy retention, is a time of transition and adaptation. It’s the moment to step away from the frenetic activities of summer, strengthen our respiratory and digestive systems, and support our immune system. We slow down! And like the falling leaves, we learn to let go. In Chinese medicine, autumn is associated with the Lung and Large Intestine organ systems. In the cycle of the 5 movements, autumn is linked to Metal; the Lung is an organ associated with emotions of sadness and melancholy, which are important to acknowledge. It's true that after the joy of summer—relatively warm(!)—the approach of winter may evoke some nostalgia. When Lung energy flows well, breathing is calm, the mind is peaceful, and we embrace events with serenity.

When out of balance, even a minor disturbance can plunge us into sadness, promoting seasonal depression, the "end of summer blues, back-to-school blues." Taking care of oneself through good breathing, massages, Qi Gong, or Yoga is essential during this time. The Lung governs breathing and elimination, receiving energy in the form of breath and serving as the first line of defense against external pathogens. If Lung energy is weakened, we become more vulnerable to colds, allergies, and asthma. The Lung also diffuses liquids throughout the body, and a weakness in the Lung can manifest as dry skin, especially in autumn. The Large Intestine, a Yang organ that collaborates with the Lung, helps absorb nutrients and transform waste, and also "digest" events. The pungent flavor (in moderation), linked to autumn, disperses and circulates energy, ideal for driving out cold and dampness with spices such as cinnamon or ginger. It also helps eliminate minor seasonal viruses.

And from now on... Dress warmly, heat your meals, stop eating salads, and switch to roasted vegetables and hearty soups. Enjoy the wonderful autumn vegetables, cooked and easy to digest, comforting for your body and helping you prepare for winter. Also, consider a moxibustion session to strengthen your energy...