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 organ systems associated with Autumn in Chinese Medicine. 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 contain potent Anti-Oxidants which 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. This is the perfect time to start preparing nourishing soups and stews for you and your family.
Vegetables to cook with:
- Carrots
- Onions
- Winter Squash: Delicata, Butternut
- Pumpkin (Kabocha)
- Broccoli
- Parsley
- Kale
- Parsnips, Turnips, & 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 healthy Fats.
Sour/pungent foods to cook with:
- Sourdough bread
- Sauerkraut, Kimchi
- 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 Autumn. Acupuncture not only helps the body physically, but mentally as well. Fall is a great time to set up some Acupuncture treatments to support the Seasonal transition as your body and mind adapt to the changing of the season.
Let’s set up a visit to prepare for the new season ahead, prevent colds & flus, and to stay in optimum health!
Dr. Mindy Boxer 310. 450. 9711.
