In Chinese medicine, the autumn season corresponds to the Metal element. It begins on 7 August and ends on 19 October. Energy moves from Yang towards Yin, from expansion towards contraction, so it is important to be structured and organised during this period. This applies to the outside world but also to our inner world. As the leaves fall from the trees, we should remember how pleasant it is to let go. Your breathing is a balance between breathing in and breathing out. Breathing out is necessary to get rid of what we no longer need and to be able to fill up again.
It is also the season for getting rid of what we no longer need, which can create stress, confusion or a feeling of being overwhelmed. Cleaning, tidying, sorting and throwing away allow Qi to flow freely and bring more clarity to our choices and decisions. When you are aligned with what is essential, you can connect with your intentions.
The Lung and Large Intestine meridians can be where imbalances appear during this season. The most common symptoms I see in my patients are: breathing problems, allergies, sinus congestion, sore throat, cough, colds, flu, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, sadness, grief, depression, stress, mental confusion, having no purpose in life, a need for control, and difficulty letting go.
Here are some tips for balancing the Metal element during autumn:
- Tidy up and simplify. This is a good time to sort out your wardrobes and cupboards. A good way to do this is to get rid of things you have not worn or used for more than a year. Clean, tidy, give away, sell or throw away whatever is surplus.
- Get organised and set up a routine. Plan the tasks to be done for work and at home. It helps to have regular times for each task, such as preparing meals, sleeping, exercising and taking care of yourself.
- Check your alignment. Review your priorities, resources and activities, and check which ones are aligned with who you are today.
- Let go. Take time to discern what has value for you and what no longer serves you. You can ask yourself what you need to let go of from the past in order to move towards the future. This may mean letting go of old thoughts, old emotions, emotions such as shame or guilt, old relationships, old habits.
- Allow yourself to feel sadness or grief. Make sure you listen to your emotions, and avoid judging or burying them. Instead, give thanks for the lessons received. Free yourself from judgement and forgive yourself and others. Have the courage to feel the emptiness created and to consider the space this creates.
I practise acupuncture in a traditional way and take into account every aspect of well-being: physical, psychological, emotional, mental and spiritual.
Book an appointment on Doctolib if you would like support to regain balance and alignment. It is beneficial to have a session at each change of season to help the body adapt to its environment.