⁠In Traditional Chinese medicine eating in harmony with the seasons helps our body adjust to the time of year and optimise our health during this time.  In TCM Autumn is a time we become more introspective, turning inwards as the weather turns cooler, in preparation for winter. Autumn is associated with the Lungs and is seen as a time of 'letting go' to make room for new growth.

The Lungs and its partner organ the Large Intestine play an important role in keeping us happy and healthy during Autumn. Our lungs function to take in the new - clean air and oxygen to allow us breathe and think clearly. Our Large Intestine is responsible for 'letting go'. The last stage in digestion it works to eliminate waste from our body. ⁠ ⁠

In TCM our Lungs regulate our immune system and skin. They have the job of 'descending and dispersing' energy to the extremities of the body. When our lung energy is 'weak' we are more likely to experience colds, coughs, flus and asthma.

So how can you help keep yourself healthy this Autumn?⁠ ⁠

• How and what we eat during autumn is important to keep our immune system and digestion firing. Ditch the salads and raw foods and start cooking warmer nourishing foods. Think soups, casseroles and Sunday roasts. ⁠Your body will be able to absorb the nutrients it needs more easily. ⁠
• In TCM ‘pungent’ foods help to support the descending function of the Lungs to relieve lung congestion and support digestion. Add some 'pungent foods' and spice up your cooking - ginger, garlic, chilli, cardamon, cinnamon, fennel, rosemary, basil and sage are all great to help keep coughs and colds at bay!⁠ ⁠
• Support skin health and avoid dryness by including oily fish or a good quality EPA/DHA fish oil in your diet. ⁠ ⁠
• Eat nutrient dense foods high in protein, vitamin B's, vitamin C, zinc and selenium to help build up your immune system.  
• In TCM colds and flu enter through the pores in our skin so it's important to keep warm and rugged up on cooler windy days. So don't forget your scarf! 
• During Autumn practice deep breathing every day, it's a great way to strengthen your lungs. ⁠ ⁠
• Physically and emotionally, get rid of the old to make room for the new.  This is working in harmony with the autumn season.⁠ ⁠

We love combining the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine + Evidence Based Nutrition to help mums thrive postpartum, breastfeeding and beyond. Check out how our range can boost immunity and support your health this autumn.