Transitioning to Autumn

As autumn approaches plants’ qi begins to flow down into the roots as the Yin cycle approaches, helping the preparation for the coming seasons of winter. Autumn is the season for the body to begin storing energy for the upcoming colder months.

The organs that are associated with fall are the lungs and large intestine. The lungs oversee Qi circulation (the body’s natural flow and circulation) and are particularly vulnerable to colds and illness. As a result, it is critical to stay healthy and warm throughout the season. Muscles will not be able to effectively warm the body if Qi circulation is impeded.

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.

If you are interested in preparing more for the colder months, give us a call and schedule your appointment today.