Autumn Element
Chinese Medicine eating with the seasons
It’s nearly Autumn which in Traditional Chinese Medicine, we say goodbye to the long hot summer days and start welcoming cooler mornings and evenings. Autumn is part of the metal element in the 5 element theory model. The Lungs and Large Intestines are the organs associated with the metal element, whilst the corresponding emotion pertaining to the Metal element is grief.
This is a stage where we are letting go of the vibrancy and activity of the summer months, (Yang) and begin to slow down and contract our energy (Yin) as we head towards the colder phase of the year. In Chinese Medicine, winter is when we are more still, internal and reflective, preserving our energy for the cold months.
The time of the day that the metal element is most active is between 3 am, and 7 am. This is a time when our skin and lips may start to feel dry, and for some of us when conditions such as asthma, sinus and constipation may worsen. The climate during the time of the metal element is dry, which is a stark contrast to the high summer humidity levels we experience in South East Queensland.
At this time, Chinese Medicine suggests increasing the foods in our diets that are moistening, such as pears and small amounts of honey. It also conveys in its teachings that as the weather starts to cool down, we must swap cold smoothies, iced drinks and salads for warm, cooked foods such as warm porridge for breakfast and soups for dinner.
A recipe that I really love that makes a perfect Autumn lunch or dinner is one that I stumbled across online called (warm) Cauliflower and Lentil salad.
The great thing about this dish is that it is gluten, dairy-free and vegan. It has tahini, almonds, and lentils, making it a complete protein, which is a bonus. I am not vegan, by the way, nor do I recommend that you be either. However, there are days when I like to take a break from animal protein and have something sustaining and nourishing, such as this warm salad.
It is most delicious, and when I make this for friends and family, I often have people asking me to share the recipe, so I thought I would do this for you here.
Please do give it a try and let me know what you think.
Autumn is also time ordinarily (when we are not in the middle of a pandemic) to prepare our immune systems for the viral exposure that lies ahead. In Chinese medicine, Astragalus is a traditional herb used to bolster the immune system, helping the body ward off colds and flu. In Naturopathic medicine, we of course turn to nutrients such as Vitamin C, Zinc and Vitamin D. These both protect and treat the immune system from and after viral exposure.
In order to keep our immune systems strong, I always encourage my clients to ensure that their Vitamin D levels are optimal. A blood test is the easiest way to test your Vitamin D, with levels of around 100 being ideal for a robust immune system. Similarly, Zinc can be tested this way, with levels above 14 being ideal.
If you would like to have your levels assessed or organise an Acute/Brief consult for guidance around how to get through a viral episode, including the best supplements and recommended dosing, click the button below to make a booking with me.
After experiencing a high viral load, symptoms such as prolonged fatigue can still be present in some people. If you need help navigating this, please do not hesitate to make a booking to come in for a consult. Alternatively, you can book yourself in for a zoom or phone session if coming into the clinic is difficult for you.
A naturopath can help you manage your symptoms through diet and lifestyle changes, including acupuncture and yoga. Make an appointment today and start your journey to recovery.
