AUTUMN !?

According to the Chinese calendar, Autumn is already here: it began August 1! This is because the Chinese calendar reflects the natural environment. Perhaps you’ve noticed the sunny Yang days of summer are slowly growing shorter, more Yin. Despite this, it certainly still feels like summer here in the Northeast, especially with tropical storm Henri bringing so much rain and humidity.

It’s interesting that in Chinese medicine, Autumn is associated with the energy of the spleen and stomach. When that energy is weak or blocked, the result is diagnosed as “dampness” and is said to lead to a wide range of symptoms, among them poor digestion, a feeling of heaviness or fatigue especially in the legs and lower body, difficulty getting started in the morning, and fuzzy, unclear thinking. Autumn, therefore, is a good time to work on bringing circulation into the spleen, stomach, and digestive system (hello … Knocking on the Door of Life!).  One can also strengthen the digestive system by eating light, clear foods, especially seasonal vegetables, salads, and maybe eat a little less meat. All good advice.  😊.