Seasonal Transitions with Chinese Medicine
Since the Summer Solstice (the longest day of the year here in the northern hemisphere), we began transitioning from the yang energy of the summer to a more yin time of year, Autumn. This period of time involves the days growing shorter as we welcome the Autumnal Equinox, a time of equal day and night.
During summer we experienced consistent high temperatures and humidity; drought and fires even ravaged some parts of the country. It was also the first summer in two years where pandemic restrictions had been lifted. Many of us seized this opportunity to travel and socialize like it was 2019.
In Chinese Medicine, there is a season called Late Summer which starts in mid August and continues to the Autumnal Equinox. It is when we move from the Fire element to Earth in anticipation for the Metal element of Autumn. Where Summer is a time to socialize and travel, Late Summer is a time to wind down. During the season corresponding with Earth, we get more grounded. It is a period of nurturing and reflection.
As we live in a results-driven society, sometimes slowing down is challenging. Especially in the metropolitan area where we are focused on goals and our to-do lists. Living in this state of being is not sustainable long-term (think of the phrase, “wired and tired”). If you are experiencing signs of burn-out or chronic fatigue it indicates it is time to slow down and rest.
In order to achieve health, we must find the balance between work/activity (yang energy) and rest (yin activity).
This is especially important during a seasonal change. Late Summer also corresponds to the Stomach and Spleen organs. Energetically, these organs are responsible for the transformation of food into energy. It is important to pay attention to what we eat in order to keep our immune systems strong as we begin to move into colder temperatures.
The Stomach and Spleen work best when our eating schedule is consistent. Even though this may be a busy time of year, it is important to nourish and fuel your body regularly throughout the day. The late summer is also a time to enjoy and celebrate the fruits of our labor; a time to harvest. The Spleen organ in Chinese Medicine loves to enjoy sweet things, so this is a great time to find ways to enjoy the “sweetness of life,” while being mindful not to overindulge.
In addition, regular acupuncture during seasonal transitions can help us overcome any mental turbulence, as well as calm the nervous system and reduce excess stress. Acupuncture can also help us get more restful sleep, improve digestion, and relieve any unwanted pain.
In conclusion see below for some at-home recipes to honor our transition to Autumn. A useful mindfulness exercise while eating is pausing to notice every sensation including taste, texture, and smell.
Sweet & aromatic roasted vegetables | Serves 2-3
3-4 Whole peeled sweet potatoes
Fennel- 1 bulb sliced (save greens for garnish & aromatics)
Vidalia or sweet onion- 1 whole sliced
1/2 Tablespoon whole cloves
2 Tablespoons toasted chopped walnuts
2-3 Tablespoons Maple Syrup
3 Tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil
Recipe:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees
Cut potatoes in cubes, Slice fennel in 1/4 inch pieces, slice whole sweet onion
In a large bowl whisk together: EVOO, maple syrup, salt and pepper
Add vegetables and coat well
Add to sweet potatoes a roasted pan and bake for 20 minutes on 400
Add fennel and tturn oven down to 350 degrees. Continue cooking for 20 minutes
Toast chopped walnuts separately for 5 minutes
Add vegetables to your a bed of microgreens (optional) top with chopped fennel greens, pumpkin seeds and drizzle of EVOO
Soon we will officially enter the Fall season which is associated with the element of Metal in Chinese Medicine. Keep an eye out on your inbox for a follow up!