Transitioning from summer to fall represents not only a seasonal change from warm to cool weather but, in Chinese medicine, it is going from alive and boundless yang energy to more of a laid-back and quiet energy of yin. The autumn is also a time for cold and flu season and when we seem to be more susceptible to the bugs that are out there!
Fall is a wonderful time to recommit to your health, and Lee Acupuncture can help you do that. Whether you want to eat healthier, stay active, or address a looming health concern, our acupuncture clinic is here to support you. Learn more about wellness tips for staying healthy this fall.
Wellness Tips Aligned With Chinese Medicine
Chinese medicine works to bring every part of you back into balance and does so using acupuncture, herbs, and other eastern methods to unblock your energy and keep you feeling your best. When you tweak a couple of small things in your lifestyle, it will make for a smoother, healthier transition.
Get warm!
In the fall, the temperatures begin to drop which means staying warm to help combat bacteria and viruses. In Chinese medicine, to help keep your body temperature up, consuming warming foods and beverages can be very beneficial. Warming foods are meats, squash, and sweet potatoes in addition to ginger, cinnamon, garlic, and dense stews and soups. Drinking warming beverages such as teas and bone broth are also a great way to stay warm and cozy.
Be more watchful of your food intake.
Many times in the cooler weather we (and our bodies) go into hibernation mode, so we’re not as active. Be mindful that when you are less active, your body requires less food. On the other hand, if you are working out regularly, fuel your body accordingly.
Pause.
Fall and winter are wonderful seasons to take a pause and slow down. The cold, shorter days help us do this more naturally. So, instead of continuing the hustle and bustle, pause and use this season to catch up on your favorite book or learn something new.
Sleep in.
Chinese medicine recommends aligning your body with the sun, so in the fall and winter months, that means sleeping more because there are fewer daylight hours. 10 hours of sleep is not uncommon in the colder months!
Get acupuncture.
Acupuncture is a great preventative health measure to take in the fall to battle the onslaught of illness. Help restore and balance your body while boosting energy levels and feeling your best with the addition of acupuncture.
Stress less.
Working on our stress levels is one of the hardest things to do but stress weakens the immune system, so the sooner you can reduce it, the better it will be at staying healthy. Learn to meditate and help your body slow down and be present in the moment. This can be as simple as taking a long walk or preparing your favorite meal.
The fall ushers in cooler weather and a change in pace with shorter days — revel in this time to create healthier habits by changing up some of your lifestyle habits.