In
nature, during this time, the sap of the trees moves into their roots,
leaves change color, and animals begin to store food to prepare for the
winter. This is the time of year for us to start focusing on internal
cultivation.
According
to Chinese Taoist philosophy, the Fall season is associated with the
metal element. Metal corresponds to the Lungs and Large Intestine (or
colon) and the emotions of grief and compassion. It also represents the
characteristics of clarity and organization.
Grief and Compassion:
Fall represents the end of summer and the coming of winter. The abundance of growth and greenery is starting to fade, the leaves are starting to change colors as winter approaches. It is a reminder that nothing stays the same and that all things have a beginning and an end. The emotions of sadness and grief are linked to fall in Chinese philosophy because of this change. As we say our farewells to summer these emotions are often felt as we prepare for the darkness of winter.
When we are sad and grieving, it affects our lungs. Grief causes our Qi to descend. Our lungs feel heavy and deflated. It can be hard to take deep breaths. But it is important to remember that grief and sadness are normal human emotions. It is ok to experience it from time to time in our lives when life has hit a rough spot or a loved one has gone away. By not denying these feelings and by accepting them as part of the cycle of life, we can move through the grief to cultivate compassion. Experiencing and dealing with a deep sense of loss allows us to understand and be compassionate about the suffering of others.
Lungs and Colon:
This is the time of year that a lot of people come down with colds, sore throats and respiratory issues. Constipation, skin problems, and allergies are more prevalent now. Make sure to dress appropriately for the weather, eat well and take care of the health of your lungs and colon proactively.
Clarity:
The metal element represents clarity — like the mirror-like finish of a polished piece of metal or the crystal clear reflection off the surface of a lake. After the growth and expansion of the spring and summer months, oftentimes there is a lot of chaos left behind. The mind can get scattered and distracted by the joys of summer. It is important now to find clarity in the aftermath of so much outward activity. Like harvesting crops, this is a time to sort out the seeds, fruits, and other useable parts in our lives from everything else that should be returned back to the earth.
Organization:
The metal element also represents organization. It’s time now to organize your life and get your house back in order. No more slacking off or getting distracted. Finish gathering all your acorns and start storing them in a safe place. The warm weather is nearing an end and the cold winter is fast approaching. Nature is shifting from expansion to contraction. Get yourself prepared physically, mentally and emotionally for this big shift in activity and energy.
Since autumn is a dry season, we need to protect ourselves from cold air evaporation of moisture from our skin. Moistening, softening, and nurturing foods for this time include white rice, white beans, pears, radishes, sea vegetables, potatoes, cabbage, turnips and parsnips.
Grief and Compassion:
Fall represents the end of summer and the coming of winter. The abundance of growth and greenery is starting to fade, the leaves are starting to change colors as winter approaches. It is a reminder that nothing stays the same and that all things have a beginning and an end. The emotions of sadness and grief are linked to fall in Chinese philosophy because of this change. As we say our farewells to summer these emotions are often felt as we prepare for the darkness of winter.
When we are sad and grieving, it affects our lungs. Grief causes our Qi to descend. Our lungs feel heavy and deflated. It can be hard to take deep breaths. But it is important to remember that grief and sadness are normal human emotions. It is ok to experience it from time to time in our lives when life has hit a rough spot or a loved one has gone away. By not denying these feelings and by accepting them as part of the cycle of life, we can move through the grief to cultivate compassion. Experiencing and dealing with a deep sense of loss allows us to understand and be compassionate about the suffering of others.
Lungs and Colon:
This is the time of year that a lot of people come down with colds, sore throats and respiratory issues. Constipation, skin problems, and allergies are more prevalent now. Make sure to dress appropriately for the weather, eat well and take care of the health of your lungs and colon proactively.
Clarity:
The metal element represents clarity — like the mirror-like finish of a polished piece of metal or the crystal clear reflection off the surface of a lake. After the growth and expansion of the spring and summer months, oftentimes there is a lot of chaos left behind. The mind can get scattered and distracted by the joys of summer. It is important now to find clarity in the aftermath of so much outward activity. Like harvesting crops, this is a time to sort out the seeds, fruits, and other useable parts in our lives from everything else that should be returned back to the earth.
Organization:
The metal element also represents organization. It’s time now to organize your life and get your house back in order. No more slacking off or getting distracted. Finish gathering all your acorns and start storing them in a safe place. The warm weather is nearing an end and the cold winter is fast approaching. Nature is shifting from expansion to contraction. Get yourself prepared physically, mentally and emotionally for this big shift in activity and energy.
Since autumn is a dry season, we need to protect ourselves from cold air evaporation of moisture from our skin. Moistening, softening, and nurturing foods for this time include white rice, white beans, pears, radishes, sea vegetables, potatoes, cabbage, turnips and parsnips.
