Tips for Autumn

Autumn marks the transition from the outward, easygoingness of summer to the inward, introspectiveness of winter.  It's a time to begin moving inward both physically and mentally, to finish projects we started in spring and summer, and to let go of old thought patterns and destructive behaviors that are no longer useful.

The energy of autumn is balanced when we store what we need and release what we don’t.  Just like trees drop their crimson foliage, we too should look at our lives with a discerning eye and decide what habits, patterns, and relationships we consider worth carrying through winter into a new year.  It is a time for setting limits and protecting boundaries.

Autumn also corresponds to two organ systems, the lung and large intestine.  The first being a container for emotions around loss and grief, and the second, a container for physical waste.  Both vessels are designed to hold only what we need and to release the rest, and both should be nurtured during this time of year.

Here's how:

• Protect your lungs
  • Acknowledge any losses you've experienced this year, be it a loved one, a belief system, or an outdated idea of who you should be 
  • Keep your upper back and throat warm
  • Take brisk walks in nature
  • Practice long, deep, slow breathing 
• Nurture the large intestine
  • Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate and eat plenty of fiber
• Lifestyle suggestions
  • Finish projects
  • Slow down and go to bed earlier
  • Try meditation or a breathing exercise
  • Journal 
  • Focus on what sustains you, letting go of all the rest