Autumn is the time of year associated with the Metal Phase - the Metal Phase being part of the Five Phase or Five Element Theory in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
The Metal Phase is also associated with our Lungs and Large Intestine - the organs representing 'intake of air & qi' and 'letting go'.
We can support our Metal Phase by
taking inspiration from the season that surrounds us by -
Taking in new air & Qi:
Breathe! Take time each day to breathe slowly and deeply. As you inhale the clean autumn air, feel yourself energized and purified. Feel the old negativity leave your body and spirit.
Letting Go:
Just as the trees shed their leaves in the autumn it’s a good time to shed what no longer serves us, be that things, emotions, outdated ideas, old patterns of thought, unhelpful habits, past disappointments and losses. It's a good time of year to also go through your wardrobe, desk, garage, medicine cabinet and discard what you no longer need. Then donate, sell, or circulate what might be of value to others).
The Shiatsu Society also recommends:
Protecting your neck!
In Chinese Medicine theory “Wind is the cause of 1,000 diseases”. Wind enters the body at the back of the neck “the Wind gate” and causes conditions that develop quickly and enter the lungs like colds, flus, headaches, and sore throats. Temperature fluctuations that are typically seen this time of year make us even more susceptible to Wind. Remember to wear a scarf or hoodie offers extra protection against Wind Invasions.
Connection!
Connect with what inspires you – a good book, cooking, meeting up with friends. Connecting with what inspires us will support the spirit of the Lungs and help us feel uplifted.
Spice up your life!
The flavour associated with the autumn is “pungent”, which means aromatic and spicy. Spices likes cinnamon, ginger, clove and anise help clear the lungs from congestion and phlegm, open the airways, and stimulate proper respiratory functioning. It’s important to keep the lungs strong as they are the first line of defence against illness.
To nourish the lungs and keep the membranes healthy (which is essential for optimal immunity), make sure to stay hydrated, try sipping honey in hot water.
It’s time for nourishing soups, stews, and stir-fry's. The colour associated with the Metal Element is white, so try including white and spicy foods like leeks, horseradish, white onions and garlic into your cooking.
Spices counter dampness and congestion, following that theme of clear breathing and clear releasing… inspiration and letting go.
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