Transitioning Gracefully From Fall to Winter
Slowing and quieting as we transition to winter.
Now that we’re into the month of November, we begin to transition from autumn into winter. Some of the oldest Chinese medical texts suggested thousands of years ago that humans should live in harmony with the natural cycle of the seasons. After the warmer seasons that are full of activity, now is the time to honor slowing and quieting down, to reflect inwardly, and to rest and conserve energy so that we may be replenished and recharged instead of burned out when the spring returns. Just as the leaves fall off the trees and the roots store the essential nutrients needed for re-growth in the spring, we can shed unwanted layers, getting rid of that which does not serve us anymore, while grounding into and cultivating the positive and healthy aspects of our being.
As fall transitions into winter and the days grow shorter and colder, yang moves into yin. Winter is the most yin time of the year. According to Chinese medicine, the metal element corresponds to autumn, harvesting, the Lung and Large Intestine organs, the nose, skin and body hair, grief as well as awe and inspiration; while the water element corresponds to winter, storing, the Kidney and Bladder organs, the ears, bones and head hair, fear as well as courage and ambition. The Lungs help distribute Wei Qi, the defensive energy, to the surface of the body to ward off colds and flus, while the Kidneys store our Yuan Qi or source Qi, our most dense core strength and will-power. The Kidneys help anchor down the pure air we breathe in through the Lungs to be used as vital energy to support all the systems of the body.
During this time of introspection and consolidation, it is important we recharge our batteries and cultivate personal practices of a healthy diet, exercise, getting enough sleep and relaxation, and self-care like receiving an acupuncture treatment. Try setting attainable changes that will make you feel better to increase energy, focus and suppleness while decreasing pain, fatigue and stress. Even by thinking of one thing you’re grateful for before you go to bed can help improve your immunity.
