5 Ways To Prepare For Fall, According To Wisdom From Ayurveda & Chinese Medicine

There is a gradual slowing down and turning inward this time of year. The days become shorter and darker, trees begin to lose their leaves, and plants draw their energy inward in preparation for winter.

The wisdom traditions of traditional Chinese medicine and ayurveda can offer support during the fall because they recognize that all beings (including us humans!) are affected by seasonal changes. After the height of summer activity, you now have the opportunity to lose your metaphorical leaves and turn inward, too.

The season of fall is related to the lungs. To support the lungs, take a few minutes every day to consciously increase your breath capacity.

Find a comfortable position and pay attention to your breathing. Once you've connected to the natural rhythm of your breath, slowly begin to lengthen the exhale. Practice for 10 to 20 breaths.

The large intestine is also important this time of year, so ensuring proper elimination is key. Constipation may lead to all kinds of health problems like skin issues, mucus buildup, allergies, and mood concerns, especially in the fall.

Cold, dry, mobile, rough, and erratic qualities are thought to increase this time of year. These qualities lead to a scattered feeling, dry skin and hair, insomnia, and anxiety. To counteract this tendency, use the practice of self-massage by applying warm natural sesame oil or sweet almond oil to your body. This can help ground, nourish, and protect your whole system. It is also traditionally thought to increase lymphatic flow, which then nourishes the skin, supports the immune system, and helps the body eliminate waste.

Fall is a time to gather and store. Ayurvedic teachings suggest reducing raw and cold foods in favor of heavier warm foods and healthy oils. Choose natural foods that are moistening, and have a sweet, salty, or sour flavor—like sauerkraut, olives, pickles, rosehip tea, vinegar, and yogurt. Also, include aromatic and warming herbs and spices.

At other times of year, traditional Chinese medicine and ayurvedic teachings focus on fasting and cleaning out the body—but the season of fall calls for something different. Cleansing in the fall usually involves heavier, richer foods.

Expand your idea of cleansing by blocking off a week or so to focus on practices that support simplicity and rest. During this time eat a monodiet of kitchari (basmati rice cooked with yellow mung dal). This is considered a way to deeply bolster your digestive function, help to eliminate toxins, and prepare you for the colder months.