In ancient times, people lived in harmony with the elements of nature, living according to the seasons and maintaining balance with their ebbs and flows.

The ancients understood that we are not separate from our environment; we are intrinsically linked within it. They observed that the patterns in the natural world were reflected within their bodies and minds, and seasonal changes had a profound effect on them.

In the fast-paced modern world, we often overlook the impact of our environment on us, becoming disconnected and out of touch with its powerful truths and influences. However, this deep connection and understanding are integral to our health and well-being.

Traditional Chinese Medicine, an ancient medical practice, encapsulates a treasure trove of knowledge from the natural world. Its theories of seasonal changes, climatic factors, the five elements, and yin and yang provide insights into the nature of our bodies and minds. These concepts serve as key diagnostic tools and the foundation for balanced and harmonious living.

How can we apply this ancient wisdom to our daily lives and make healthier choices based on the elements and the season?

One simple way is to become aware of the current season, understanding its energy and patterns. The ancients adjusted their lifestyle, exercise, diet, and even temperament to align with the season.

For example, they avoided excessive anger in spring or overexcitement in summer, believing this had a profound impact on their health in subsequent seasons. Embracing these simple patterns can help us lead healthier and more balanced lives.

Let’s begin by applying ancient Chinese medicine wisdom to our current season, Autumn. This season signifies change as trees dry out and shed their leaves, temperatures drop, and fruits and vegetables become abundant.

Animals collect food for winter, and the energy shifts from yang to yin. The days grow shorter, and the nights draw in.

Autumn is a time for introspection, inward cleansing, letting go, and preparing for winter—a time of maximum yin, rest, and hibernation. We can follow the season’s energy to make this transition smoother by engaging in home-oriented projects, reading, writing, and nurturing our families.

The organs associated with Autumn are the Lungs and Large Intestine. The Lungs represent the yin organ and play a vital role in breathing and energy circulation. They are directly connected to the outside world. The associated element is Metal.

To strengthen the Lungs, practice breath work, qigong, yoga, and meditation. Meditation can help calm the mind and improve self-awareness. By focusing on the breath, you can centre yourself and experience the present moment, gaining wisdom and awareness of your true nature.

Mentally, adopt an attitude of stillness, slowing down, and mindfully letting go of negative thoughts. Like the trees shedding their leaves, we can release negativity and old habits, making room for new growth.

Physically, focus on daily bathing to remove dead skin and toxins. Exercise with a good sweat helps eliminate toxins from the body. During Autumn, develop strength and stamina and be mindful of warming up adequately before stretching and exercising.

Internal exercises like Ba Duan Jin and Yi Jin Jing are beneficial. Additionally, keep vulnerable body parts warm like our lower back , wrist and ankles as these are easy areas in which cold, wind and damp can penetrate into the body causing problems.

Following a workout, it’s advisable to pat dry the sweat and seal the pores using a dry paper towel. It’s not recommended to venture outdoors in the cold immediately after sweating.

In ancient traditions, food was considered a form of medicine, helping to balance, strengthen, and harmonise the body. Different people have different body qualities and imbalances, so dietary choices should align with these factors.

For Autumn, favour warming and hearty foods, such as root vegetables (potatoes, yams, turnips, carrots, radish, ginger, garlic, onions), as well as pungent foods that stimulate energy upward and outward.

Cooked foods are preferred, and it’s essential to maintain the balance of the metal organs, the Lungs, and Large Intestine, to avoid colds and respiratory issues.

Thyme tea is a natural herb that can help with coughs, bronchitis, colds, and respiratory issues. It relaxes bronchial spasms and reduces swelling in tonsillitis. Thyme can also be used for hooping cough in babies.

Ingredients:

• A handful of fresh thyme (dried thyme is preferable)
• Water (approximately 3 mugs)
• 1 fresh lemon, squeezed
• Honey to taste (Manuka honey with a high factor is recommended for soothing a sore throat or throat infection)

Instructions:

• Take a generous handful of fresh thyme, or dried thyme if available.
• Finely cut the thyme.
• In a saucepan, bring approximately three mugs of water to a boil.
• Add the finely cut thyme to the boiling water.
• Allow the thyme to steep in the boiling water for about 15 minutes.
• After steeping, strain the thyme-infused water into a teacup. The liquid should have a rich, brown colour.
• Squeeze the juice from half a fresh lemon into the tea.
• Sweeten your thyme tea with honey to taste. For soothing a sore throat or throat infection, consider using Manuka honey with a high factor.

Recognizing the extraordinary self-healing potential within our bodies is essential. With a deep understanding of and care for this innate ability, we can proactively enhance our overall health and well-being. Thyme tea serves as just one illustration of how we can harness the natural benefits of herbs and ingredients to fortify our resilience and vitality. Additionally, numerous other methods, including essential oils, massage, acupuncture, and various herbal remedies, offer diverse avenues to tap into our body’s inherent revitalising capabilities.

As you embrace the present, let go of negativity, and maintain an open and clear mind, remember to enjoy the transition into autumn. Let it be a source of growth and thriving, enabling you to realise your true self and experience peace and joy.