Autumn is upon us and as you enjoy the low autumn sun think of what is going on around you in nature. The sap is returning to the roots of plants and tress, leaves are turning colour, some into vibrant reds and oranges, and falling, seeds are drying out and the grass is becoming lighter in colour and drier. This is a time for harvest. Gather the food you want to take with you into winter, but also gather your thoughts and plans and dreams. Give thanks for all that has been bestowed upon you. Use this autumn as a time for transformation, a time for letting go for what is no longer serving you, a time to value and then reassess boundaries. What plans do you need to action now before the cold winter arrives and you need to hibernate and conserve your energies?
In Chinese Medicine, autumn relates to the Metal element and to the Lungs and Large Intestine. The dryness of autumn can affect the Lungs and Large Intestine causing sore throats and coughs and constipation. Dryness affects the skin and lips. The Lungs in Chinese Medicine are responsible for keeping our immunity strong. We need to be able to fight off those colds and infections quickly. Keep the lungs moistened with lots of warm drinks, especially liquorice, mint, lemon and ginger.
Move from raw foods, salads and fruit, to warming foods – stews, casseroles, compotes and soups. Try stir-frying, baking and roasting. Eat in season if you can and in particular include orange foods – sweet potatoes, squashes and pumpkin, carrots, and orange peppers. Add protective, purifying and pungent foods to the diet- onion, garlic, chive, turnip, ginger, radish, daikon root; dark leafy greens, such as kale, broccoli, chard, and spinach; seaweeds and fibre; oats, rice, amaranth, quinoa.
Try this delicious recipe for autumn butternut squash soup.
1 sweet onion, chopped
2 ribs celery
2 carrots
2 cloves garlic
1 large butternut squash, peeled, seeded and sliced
1 large green apple
2 tsp or so butter or coconut oil
3 cups (less for thicker soup) vegetable or chicken stock
In a large saucepan, melt butter or coconut oil and add onion, carrot, garlic and celery. Cook 5-10 minutes, until onions are slightly caramelized (add stock to prevent sticking if necessary). Add squash and apples and stock, cook till tender, about 15-20 minutes. Add spices to taste: salt, pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Pour into blender and puree till smooth. Top with yogurt or toasted nuts if desired.
Exercise is another way to strengthen the lung energy. Consider exercise which focuses on the breathe – yoga or Tai chi. Bring your awareness to your breathe when walking or relaxing- just count the breaths as they move in and out of your body. Counting breaths can be used as a meditation tool and can calm the mind. Try it. When another thought pops into your head and takes you away from counting the breaths, start from 1 again. Even experienced Buddhists admit they seldom get past 5 or 6!