In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the theory behind acupuncture and Yin Yoga, Autumn represents a time of transition and balance. Yin energy (associated with night, feminine, coolness, winter) begins to rise, while Yang energy (connected to day, masculine, warmth, summer) starts to wane. This natural shift can be seen in the world around us, like the trees showing their vibrant warm colours. Autumn is a good time to reflect on the joy of summer, our health state and to prepare our bodies for the colder months ahead.
According to TCM, each season corresponds to a particular organ system in the body. Autumn is the season to really take care of the Lungs and Large Intestine. Coughing, allergies, asthma, diarrhea or constipation can be signs of imbalance in the Lungs and Large Intestines. Both organs are responsible for letting go - we can let go of tension and stress with long clearing exhalations and toxins via supporting our Large Intestines with good hydration and nourishment. Here are some more tips to support you in this season:
Keep warm and look after your lungs!
As the weather cools, it's important to keep warm and protect your lungs, which are considered particularly vulnerable in TCM during autumn. Dress in layers and focus on protecting your chest from the cooler air.
Gentle exercise
As the fun in the sun season settles, its important to keep your energy flowing to prevent stagnation and cold accumulating in the body. Gentle exercises focussing on breathing like Yoga, Qi Gong, Tai Chi, or brisk walking are ideal. These activities help to balance the slowing energy of the season and support Lung health.
Sleep earlier than Summer
TCM suggests aligning your sleep schedule more closely with the sun. As the days get shorter, consider going to bed a bit earlier. This helps you to harness the energy of the season and maintain your body's balance especially after summer where nights may have been a little later and therefore sleep a little less!
Incorporate seasonal foods
Foods that are particularly beneficial during Autumn are pears, apples, root vegetables; especially pumpkin, and foods rich in fibre. Pears, for example, are known in TCM for their lung-nourishing properties, they even look like the lung.
Always look to what grows in the current season (this is also better priced at the supermarket!) as that is what your body needs most at that time.
Hydration
As the air can become drier during autumn its important to maintain good fluid intake, ideally room temperature water. Jasmine tea is a good tea for this time of year, it lifts your mood and balances emotions the season can bring up. Also consider stewing fruit to maximise the moistening properties of these foods - dried fruits in teas is also another way to add some sweetness to your tea and some added nourishment after the drying hot summer season.
Join Ange Gervan, Sophie Rado and Fleur from Puhoi Blooms for a beautiful Autumn Day Retreat at Yoga House, Orewa.
11 am - 4:00 pm
• Opening/ closing circle
• Time in nature
• Qi Gong (Tai Qi)
• Flower bouquet making with Puhoi Blooms
• Restorative Yoga with Reiki energy
• Nourishing light vegetarian lunch and teas provided.
Exchange for this offering is $250
Spaces limited, please book to secure your spot. Events and workshop T&C's apply for this session.