Nurturing Wellness in Autumn: Aligning with Nature’s Rhythm

As we transition into the three lunar months of autumn—July, August, and September in the traditional Chinese calendar—we enter a season marked by distinct energetic shifts. In classical Chinese philosophy, autumn is characterized by the descent of Yang energy and the rise of Yin energy. This is a period of harvest, maturity, and introspection, as the heat of summer recedes and cooler, crisper winds sweep through, clearing the atmosphere and inviting a sense of clarity and calm.

This season offers a precious opportunity to slow down, turn inward, and nourish our bodies and minds in harmony with nature’s rhythm.

Living in Harmony with Autumn

Sleep and Wake with the Sun Align your sleep schedule with the natural world. As daylight shortens, aim to go to bed earlier and rise early, mirroring the rhythm of animals like chickens. This helps the body adapt smoothly to the changing quality of light and energy.

Cultivate Emotional calm Autumn is associated with the metal element and the Lungs, which govern grief and attachment. It’s essential to maintain emotional tranquility, avoid overthinking, and release sadness. By calming the spirit, we harmonize with the natural “harvesting” energy of the season and keep Lung Qi flowing freely.

The Consequences of Imbalance Ignoring these principles can weaken the Lung Qi, leading to symptoms like shoulder and back tension in autumn. It may also result in poor digestion or diarrhea in winter, as the body fails to store enough Yang energy to withstand the cold. Additionally, exposure to dampness in autumn can manifest as coughs in winter.

Nutritional Guidance for Autumn

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the pungent flavor is associated with the Lung system. While moderate pungency can be beneficial, excessive consumption of spicy foods (like chili, garlic, or raw onions) may overly disperse Qi and weaken the spirit.

Instead, introduce bitter foods to help anchor energy and counterbalance pungency. Consider incorporating:

• Vegetables: bitter melon, chicory, celery, romaine lettuce

• Other sources: tea (especially green tea), dark chocolate (over 70%), lemon peel

These foods support the body’s natural transition into Yin season and help maintain mental and physical balance.

Supporting Your Wellness with Essential Oils

Essential oils can be powerful allies in navigating autumn’s energy. Look for oils that:

• Soothe grief and emotional turbulence

• Calm mental chatter and overthinking

• Nourish the Large Intestine (partner organ of the Lungs)

• Strengthen respiratory wellness

  
  

Recommended Oils:Basil, Cardamom, Chamomile, Frankincense, Orange, Ylang Ylang, Myrrh, Fennel, Bergamot, Cinnamon, Marjoram, Eucalyptus, Yarrow

DIY Lung Qi Protection Blend

Here’s a simple yet potent synergy to support your respiratory system and emotional balance:

• Carrier Oil: 10 ml (jojoba, grapeseed, or other neutral oil)

• Essential Oils:

  • 2 drops Yarrow

  • 2 drops Lemon

  • 1 drop Roman Chamomile

  • 1 drop Cinnamon

  • 1 drop Myrrh

  • 1 drop Cedarwood Atlas

    
    

Instructions:Blend all oils into the carrier oil. Store in a dark glass bottle. You can apply a small amount over the chest and throat each morning or evening, or use it for a calming self-massage.

Autumn invites us to slow down, reflect, and nurture our inner world. By aligning our habits, diet, and self-care practices with the spirit of the season, we not only strengthen our physical health but also cultivate a deeper sense of presence and peace.

Wishing you a grounded and nourishing autumn,

Xiaoya Gao, Certified Clinical Aromatherapist

www.soularoma.net

Upcoming in-person workshop: Join me on this relaxing and unique Natural Perfume Workshop! Blend your signature scent, thrive this October! (Click on the image for more information)

This workshop aligns perfectly with the autumn season’s emphasis on slowing down, turning inward, and nurturing the senses. Just as traditional practices recommend incorporating bitter foods to balance pungent flavors and using essential oils to soothe grief and overthinking 10, creating a natural perfume can be a powerful act of self-care and emotional harmony.