Fall is a time for finishing projects left over from the summer and for the beginning new more inward-originated ones. It has also a transition season, as people prepare for the arrival of the cold season. The days of seasonal change around the equinox are a perfect time to revitalize the body and lighten oneself for fall’s work.
The traditional Chinese Medicine has a very interesting way of looking at the fall season. It associates fall with the metal element, which plays an important role not only in creating structure, but also in communication (e.g. metal wires enhance connections, electricity results in more communication). On an anatomical level, the metal element is also linked to the lungs, large intestines and skin. If one develops a cold in the winter, it is a direct result of the weakening of these organs during the fall season. On the other hand, if these organs are strengthened during the fall, the likelihood of developing problems later on decreases. The Chinese also associate worry, grief and sorrow with the metal element. People who carry around these emotions will eventually develop chronic lung problems. Therefore, the fall is an excellent time to work on strengthening the body and preventing later problems.
One easy way to start taking care of the respiratory system is by paying attention to breathing and trying to make it as deep as possible. Deep breathing is achieved by ensuring that, with every breath taken, the abdomen moves in and out. Furthermore, the quality of air inhaled is also a determining factor in the wellness of the respiratory system. The fresher the air, the better the results. Finally, it is also important to realize that lungs do not particularly like cold or damp weather. Since fall can be somewhat unpredictable, it is important to avoid feeling cold or damp during this time.
In addition in strengthening the lungs, it is important to try to enhance the other major “fall organ”- the large intestine. Regular bowel movements should normally come after each meal, as a result of the gastro colic reflux.
However, the large intestine is usually overstressed because of our eating habits. Congestion of this organs leads to a variety of symptoms, such as loss of tone (which causes general abdominal discomfort), low and mild backaches, pressure in the head and sinuses, headache, sore throat, crankiness, lack of energy and lack of enthusiasm for life. Two associated organs that are important in the smooth function of the large intestine are the liver and gall bladder.
Colon cleansing starts with a number of lifestyle changes: eliminating highly unnatural, preserved, processed foods, and high mucus-forming foods such as meats, dairy and sweets. All of these foods increase putrefaction and fermentation, thus raising the toxicity level of the colon.
In addition, Naturopathy offers a number of ways to prevent problems during the winter season: homeopathy, botanical medicines, acupuncture and Chinese herbs, massage and other body work and various physical modalities. You may want to consider and investigate some of these modalities in your quest for better health.
And now I’d like to help you take the first step towards revitalizing your body this fall: take my toxicity Self-Test .
You’re also invited to register for my upcoming FREE Naturopathic Detoxification teleseminar.
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