Known for its beauty and bounty, Fall is a favorite season for many. As we transition from the warmer months of Summer to the cooler months of Autumn, we can turn to the ancient teachings of Eastern Medicine to learn how to stay healthy with the shift and guide us to choosing aligned foods, potions, and offerings for the season.
The old saying goes, “As above, so below," meaning that as we transition from one season to the next, our bodies go through changes as well. According to Chinese Medicine Five Element Theory, each season is related to a Yin + Yang organ pair, texture, emotion, flavor, and so much more.
During Fall, the Yin + Yang organ pair is the Lung + Large Intestine, respectively. This is truly the season of allowing ourselves to let go of what is no longer needed, the function of a healthy Large Intestine, and taking in new, fresh experiences, just as the Lungs take in fresh, vital praana/life-force. As this is the overarching theme of the season, we can begin to become more aware of what we need to let go of in order to bring new experiences in our lives.
Dryness is the ‘temperature’ of the season. When balanced, our bodies are well-lubricated, our skin is healthy and plump and our hair is full of life. But, if we are affected by the seasonal shift, we might experience dry skin, hair, lips, and even skin irritations may arise from the lack of moisture. This dryness can also affect our Large Intestine during the season, meaning things just don’t move as smoothly.
Rather than waiting until an imbalance arises, we can use the wisdom of Chinese Medicine to keep our skin glowing and our bodies healthy. Here are a few tips for Fall and Autumnal offerings to stay absolutely vital and radiant all season long...
PEARS
Not only is this seasonal fruit delicious but they help to moisten the Lungs according to Chinese Medicine and are absolutely abundant. If your throat is feeling dry or allergies causing it to be itchy, pears are the perfect remedy. Rich in Vitamin C and potent antioxidants, eat them as is or make fresh pear juice in the morning - your body and skin will love you.
ASTRAGALUS
Reputed as the most potent Qi Tonic in the World, this traditional Taoist herb may help to tonify the lungs, which in turn helps to keep our immune system strong by boosting our Wei Qi.
TOCOS
Known as “The Ultimate Skin Food,” Tocos is a rich source of bio-available Vitamin E that may help to promote healthy skin and facilitate removal of toxins from the body. And with its rich + creamy texture, we can’t think of a more perfect addition to your seasonal rotation.
TRIPHALA ELIXIR
Known for its ability to keep our digestive systems running smoothly, this Triphala Elixir is perfect to add into your daily routine for the season. This potent elixir may support organs of digestion + elimination, which is absolutely essential to nourish and cleanse the entire system.
SHEA BUTTER
Wildcrafted Shea Butter is absolutely divine. The smell alone is enough to send you into bliss but it is also loaded with healing benefits, such as may help to balance skin pH, heal blemishes, dryness, skin allergies, chapped lips, and more. Slather it on from head-to-toe for glowing, healthy skin all season long.