We are moving into the season of Autumn and the element of metal. Just as the leaves fall from the trees, we too may experience a sense of letting go at this time of year. Energy has begun its contraction in preparation for the winter ahead. We are no longer warmed by the long days of summer; the fall is a time to organize the lazy days of the previous season and make the most of each day. Our rhythm returns and our need for structure emerges as we prepare to go inward and downward in this cycle of nature.
At this time, we may find ourselves more aware of the preciousness of life. Think of a time when you have walked in the woods, when the leaves were vibrant hues and all of the forest was on fire with the colors of the season only to find that the next day, the leaves had fallen. We are reminded yet again of the impermanence of life.
Many people find this season awe-inspiring and feel more connected to nature or spirituality. Some people however, experience a deep sense of loss or grief at this time of year. This emotion is not necessarily a bad thing as it can be used to call us to reflection. Focusing internally, we can identify unresolved sorrows and
transform them by being mindful of them. It is when we cannot acknowledge and
move through these feelings that illness or depression may arise. Sharing such
feelings with others or a professional can help to dissipate them.
Here are some simple ways
to attune you with the season:
- Spend time in nature each day and notice the changes that are rapidly
taking place. - Clean out and let go of the clutter in your environment; choosing to
keep only the things that are really precious to you. - Detoxification is appropriate at this time. Since the weather is
getting cooler, we need to exercise and spend time in a sauna or steam as a
means to clear toxins. Regular sweating is important to good health. - Include a whole foods dietary cleanse to help the colon in
elimination. This can be as simple as eating only cooked grains and vegetables
for three days with plenty of warm water as the only beverage.
