Autumn - The season of the Metal element in 5 element acupuncture

In 5 element acupuncture each of the elements is associated with a particular season and as we move into Autumn we are moving into the season of the metal element.

The Chinese very sensibly realised that we will more easily maintain our health if we respect the seasons and eat and behave appropriately.  So as we are now in Autumn how can we best support our health.

Firstly Metal is the element of the Lung and large intestine so we need to make sure that we look after the health of those two systems.  Remember that in Chines medicine we are thinking about the whole system represented by Lung and Large Intestine and not just the organ that we think of in Western medicine.

Tip One Keep your neck warm and protected   The Large Intestine channel runs up the arm, across the shoulder, up the neck and ends by the side of the nostril.  So protecting the channel with a scarf will help to protect you from wind and external causes of disease.

Tip Two Eat the Foods of the Season We are so used to having any food we fancy at any time of the year but it is much better for you to eat the foods that are fresh and in season so in Autumn enjoy apples, squash, pears, cabbage and carrots.  Eat less cold foods and salads and enjoy warming soups and stews.  Warming spices such as ginger and cinnamon are really good to season your foods.

Tip Three Keep really hydrated Both the lungs and the Large Intestine need plenty of moisture to work properly so make sure you drink plenty of fluids, particularly water

Tip Three Time to Let go Nature really lets go during the Autumn.  The trees let go of all their leaves, plants start to store all the energy they built up during the Summer as they prepare for Winter.  It is also time for you to let go of anything that has been weighing you down.  Assess where you are and try to let go of anything that is causing you to have emotional weight.  Remember acupuncture treatment can help you to let go and move forward