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| Welcome to the ‘Season of mists and mellow
fruitfulness’……(Keats), a truly beautiful time
of year. |
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| Mid September brings the Autumn Equinox, when
the whole of Nature experiences a subtle change of energy. The
vigour of Summer with it’s sunlight and long days is gradually
replaced by a much slower pulse, and that distinctive sharp
chill in the air. This message is reflected in Nature around
us as woodland creatures prepare to hibernate and golden leaves
are shed from the trees. |
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| So what about us? Don’t expect that Summertime
‘buzz’ in October! However, there are lots of ways
we can support that subtle change in energy, through what we
eat and drink and lifestyle choices we make. Coughs and colds
seem more prevalent for two reasons. Firstly, our bodies perform
a cellular clean around the Autumn Equinox, in order to help
prepare the body for the colder months ahead. If our routes
of elimination (colon, lungs, skin) are not functioning efficiently,
this ‘detox’ can manifest as respiratory infections
or other illnesses. Secondly, body fluids are thicker between
September and March and we literally cannot shake off our ailments
as effectively! Our bodies are designed to be awake in natural
daylight and our cells respond to sunlight. Artificial light
does not have the same effect. During the hours of darkness
we should be resting or sleeping. Where does all-night clubbing
fit in here? How about working until late and then eating at
10pm? These examples just serve to show how far we have evolved
from our original human design. |
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| So, if we need to work late, or enjoy partying,
what can we do? Here are some ideas. |
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Try eating denser foods that match seasonal energy –
root vegetables, grains, home-made soups and stews. |
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If you enjoy consuming raw foods, then enjoy lots of
juices made from carrots, parsnips, beetroot and other
seasonal favourites. |
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Try to avoid eating a heavy meal after dark. |
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Consider taking Echinacea tincture on a regular basis
(herb which supports immune function). |
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Take extra Vitamin C to support the immune system. |
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Try to give your body some opportunity to feel and adjust
to the seasonal temperature. Wrap up well if necessary.
At the first shiver, we tend to head for the central heating
switch! |
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Use herb and fruit teas to ‘warm up’ as required. |
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Take steps to reduce stress factors such as alcohol,
sugar and caffeine. These can stay around in the body,
only to manifest unpleasantly at the Spring Equinox, when
another detox takes place. |
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If you feel drawn to eat more carbohydrates, eat more
vegetables, wholegrain bread and brown rice. Make your
own ‘snacks’ from pumpkin and sunflower seeds,
nuts, raisins or sultanas. |
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| Remember that pumpkins can do more than make
lanterns! Use this versatile colourful vegetable in soups, stews
as well as the famous Pumpkin Pie! |
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