Make the most of the energy of autumn

In Chinese medicine it is very important to live in harmony with the seasons. So during the summer months, it’s fine to make the most of the long days and light evenings by staying out late and spending time with friends. However if you find it hard to let go of the summer and continue partying through the autumn and winter, by spring it’s likely you will suffer ill health.

Autumn is the beginning of the Yin cycle and associated with the Metal element according to Five Element acupuncture theory. Metal is said to govern order, organisation and the setting of boundaries and limits – and it’s these characteristics that you should be adopting during the autumn months.

Just like food grown during the summer is then harvested in autumn, this season is also a great time to finish projects that you started in the spring and summer – so, harvest all the good work you have done this year. Autumn is also a great time to start on any indoor projects you might have.

Whereas summer is associated with fun, play, enjoying the outdoors, autumn is a key time for organising your life and getting ready for the winter season. It’s important to keep your body and mind in a state of quite harmony and reflection, and to not drain your energy. Go to bed early and wake up at dawn to a good breakfast. Spend time doing gentle exercise, making warm food such as stews and soups, and avoid too many cold or raw foods.

The Metal element is also associated with the Lungs and Large Intestine organs in Chinese medicine.  The Lung is one of the highest organs in the body and directly exposed to the outside via the nose, so in autumn and winter the Lungs can be affected by the cold. The lungs control the circulation of the Wei-Qi, which is the defensive Qi that protects you from the invasion of flu and colds.

Therefore it’s important to wrap up warm during these months – try not to go out without wearing a scarf for instance. It’s an open invitation for coughs, colds and sore throats if you leave that area exposed to the elements. The Lungs can be affected by damp creating foods such as dairy products, whilst ingredients such as garlic, onions, ginger and mustard are good for this organ.

Now is a great time to prepare your body for the winter and strengthen your immune system by getting a tune-up from a qualified acupuncturist. Visit www.woodsideacupuncture.co.uk for more details.