Changing of Seasons: Fall
Amanda Mauro, MA
As the seasons begin to change and we move into cooler months, it is a good time to reset how we are fueling our bodies. If we use nature as a leader in this, we can notice that things start to slow down and it’s a gentle reminder that we can also follow.
Foods that are nourishing to the lungs are very important during fall. These foods include: ginger, onion, garlic, pears, walnuts, miso, navy beans, almonds, asparagus, broccoli, apricots, bananas, apples, plums, and grapes. In addition, to counter the effects of drier weather, it is recommended to eat foods such as nuts, seeds, pumpkins, and honey.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) associates each season with a pair of organs. During each season, our focus shifts to these different pairs to help to support the body and overcome stagnation. Fall is associated with the Lung (yin- internal energy) and Large Intestine (yang- physical body) meridians in the body; meridians are paths through which the life-energy known as “qi” flows. The lungs control our respiration which also helps regulate the flow of water in our body. The large intestine takes care of releasing waste in our bodies.
These organs process what our body no longer needs so that we can only keep what is nourishing and essential. Energetically, the two organs work together so that we can let go and make space for the new. As fall marks the beginning of the yin cycle of the year, we look inward to sift through what we might still be hanging on to in our lives that may have already outlived its purpose. To see if we can soften our grip around these and open ourselves to receive something else.
Five element theory provides the basis for describing how forms, systems, and events are developed. It postulates that the elements (wood, fire, metal, earth, and water) are the basic elements of the material world. The Five Element Theory is used to interpret the relationship between the physiology and pathology of the human body and the natural environment.
This season is governed by the Metal element with its qualities of precision, organization, setting limits, and protecting boundaries. From the more carefree days of summer, our days in autumn become more structured as we form routines that take us through our day. Priorities and goals are often reoriented as we prepare for the colder months ahead.
Be kind to yourself as this transition begins to occur and allow yourself grace and space to reflect and refocus. I love the change in seasons and fall is one of my favorites. Finding new receipts to cook that incorporate some of the foods mentioned above can create an opportunity to reconnect.
Taking care of how we fuel and move our body is such an important aspect of mental health and therapy. If you would like to explore more ways to reconnect and support both your body and mind, go check out my website https://amandamaurocounseling.com/
Photo by Chris Lawton on Unsplash