I’m sure you’ve noticed the cooler temperatures creeping up on us here in Vermont, especially in the mornings. We’re looking for our long sleeves as Fall seems to be quickly approaching. We are at the end of Summer, our children have mostly returned to school, and we’re looking forward to the next season.
Change is in the air, and some are more welcoming to this than others. In Chinese medical thinking, this is a time of vulnerability as our bodies need to readjust and recondition to the upcoming changes in the environment.
Change is in the Air
Fall is considered the Metal season, or the time when our Lung system is more demanded. The Lung is seen as the first line of defense against any challenges presented by the environment. This includes our nose, sinuses, and lungs, our skin, and general immunity. We can assist our Lung function by proactively protecting ourselves.
This means making sure to keep warm as the temperature begins to drop. Wear some extra clothing without overheating yourself. Don’t be afraid to wear a scarf in September. Drinking warm tea throughout the day may feel comforting during this time of year and is protective.
Having soups and warming spices is also a good idea. We can help our bodies this way to adjust and condition for the approaching change in the environment. Having this type of mindset when living in a place that experiences noticeable changes in temperature from warm to cold may help you particularly prevent common respiratory illnesses.
Metal and the Lung
Similar to leaves naturally falling from a tree during the Metal season, the Lung assists in letting go of what is no longer serving us or needed in the system. It is often a time that naturally helps with grieving and letting go. When the Lung is healthy, we’re able to recognize and retain the value in what or who we’ve lost and continue with the progression of our lives, rather than feeling stuck in the pain of loss.
Welcome to the coming of Fall in Vermont and elsewhere. I hope you enjoy what remains of Summer and find an easy and healthy change of season.