I recently spoke with a client after her acupuncture session about how to best keep our energy and health going into fall. It’s ironic that many people experience their heaviest workloads in fall. As nature slows down and days grow shorter, stress seems to increase.
According to Chinese medicine it is best to balance our workload in harmony with the seasonal rhythms. My client recalled how, in her farming family, summer was the busiest time of year, while fall and winter were periods of slowing down and rest.
The Chinese sages observed nature and its cycles. We are part of this nature. As a dynamic interaction of Yin and Yang nature is constantly striving for balance. During the warmth of summer, nature is dominated by the Yang phase. Yang represents the peak of energy and activity. As we transition into fall, the calmer and more nurturing Yin phase is growing into the Yang phase. The result is a more equal balance of energy and rest.
Thus going into fall consider reducing work hours, finishing tasks earlier, and scheduling demanding activities in the morning. In terms of diet, focus on warm foods like soups and stews as well as root vegetables. Consider replacing cold water with tea infused with fresh ginger. By aligning our activities with the seasonal change we will be more efficient in our business activities and stay resilient against disease.