Although subtle in Santa Cruz, if you pay attention, you’ll notice that things are slowly shifting into the rhythm of autumn. The leaves begin to change, and the summer bounty has likely grown over and is not as vibrant as even a month ago. This seasonal shift serves as a reminder of the beauty in slowing down and valuing release over production—a concept that can feel challenging in our modern, fast-paced lives.

But what does it mean to truly slow down and let go? In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the autumn season is closely related to the lungs and large intestine, organs that encourage the flow of breath and the release of what we no longer need. Slowing down can look like an intentional inhale and exhale, or perhaps a mindful bite of food. Letting go could be as simple as taking a moment to release unprocessed tears or reflecting on what items, habits, or expectations you may be holding onto and are ready to release.

By embracing these small practices, we align with the season, bringing ourselves into balance physically, emotionally, and spiritually. If you find slowing down and letting go challenging, remember that acupuncture can offer support and ease, helping to harmonize our body and mind during this transformative time.

Quick Daily Rituals to Embrace the Season

As autumn invites us to slow down, small daily rituals can help us align with the season and bring balance to our minds and bodies. Here are a few simple practices to start:

• Morning Breath Practice: Begin your day with a grounding breathing exercise that supports your lungs and centers your energy. Try the “4-7-8” breath: inhale deeply through your nose for 4 seconds, hold the breath for 7 seconds, and exhale gently through your mouth for 8 seconds. Repeat this 3–5 times to invite calm and focus before stepping into your day. For added support, sip on Anima Mundi’s Adaptogenic Powder to help balance your stress response and promote a sense of well-being.

• Evening Reflection Exercise: At the end of the day, take a few minutes to reflect on what you can release. Ask yourself, “What thoughts, stresses, or worries can I let go of to create more space for peace?” Writing down even one thing can be powerful, especially when paired with a Magic of I journal or dream journal. This simple ritual helps you align with the season’s energy of release and deepen your self-reflection.

Foods and Herbs to Support the Lungs and Large Intestine

In TCM, certain foods and herbs are especially nourishing during autumn, supporting the lungs and large intestine. Try incorporating these seasonal foods into your meals for a boost to your well-being:

• Pears: Moisturizing and cooling, pears are known in TCM for their ability to support lung health and are perfect for autumn. Try enjoying a fresh pear or gently cooking it with a dash of cinnamon for a warming treat.
• Radishes: These spicy, earthy vegetables help cleanse the large intestine and aid digestion. Adding radishes to salads or soups can provide digestive support, especially as our bodies adjust to cooler weather.
• Ginger Tea: Warming and soothing, ginger tea supports the digestive system and pairs well with autumn meals. Brew fresh ginger slices in hot water for a few minutes, adding honey if desired, for a cozy tea that aids both digestion and lung function.

Herbal Tip: Enhance your seasonal support by adding Anima Mundi’s Euphoria Elixir to your evening routine for calming, heart-opening benefits that ease the emotional transitions of autumn.

Are you ready to align with the season and experience the benefits of letting go? Schedule an acupuncture session with Dr. Lauren Fleming, DTCM, L.Ac., to support your journey through this transformative time. Contact us today to begin your healing journey by calling 831-600-8053, emailing hello@yosowellness.com, or scheduling online here.

• A Note on Grief and Letting Go

Stay tuned for our next blog as we dive deeper into one of the season’s most powerful, yet often hidden, emotions: grief. We’ll explore the ways TCM can help you navigate and process grief, making space for peace and renewal.