Transitioning to Autumn
With autumn
approaching and the beginning of the yin cycle, the energy of plants is moving
down into their roots, helping the body become aware of the energy of the
season. This season is a time for the body to begin gathering energy for the
colder months to come.
The lungs and
large intestine are the organs associated with fall. The lungs are responsible
for the circulation of Qi (the body’s natural flow and circulation), and are
also very susceptible to cold and illness. For this reason, it is important to
stay healthy and warm during the season. If the Qi circulation is weakened,
muscles will not be able to warm the body properly.
Autumn Foods:
Vegetables of
autumn like carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach and kale can help purify and
protect your body against free radicals. These color-rich vegetables are packed
with beta-carotene, which then turns into vitamin A. Vitamin A is essential for
our immune system, especially as the cold and flu season rolls in. These
vegetables can also strengthen your lungs and large intestine to fight illness.
Vegetables to cook with:
● carrots
● winter squash
● pumpkin
● broccoli
● parsley
● kale
● turnip greens
Autumn weather
becomes more yin, calling for warming dishes. Foods to cook that are in harmony
with the season include more sour foods, as well as foods rich in protein and
fats.
Sour/pungent foods to cook with:
● sourdough bread
● sauerkraut
● adzuki beans
● yogurt
● rosehip tea
● ginger
● garlic
● horseradish
Some find it
hard to let go of summer, with the longer days and warm air transitioning into
the crisp and shorter days of fall. Acupuncture not only helps the body
physically, but mentally as well. Fall is a great time to see an acupuncturist
as your body and mind adapt to the changing of the season.
Give your
acupuncturist a visit to prepare for the new season ahead and to stay in good
health!
Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM, C.SMA
New York Sports Acupuncture
(888) 375-5444
Sources:
“Practical
Chinese Medicine” Penelope Ody
No comments:
Post a Comment