Aligning with the Seasons – Part 4
Fall – Time to Let Go
Each season brings change and an opportunity to step into alignment with a powerful flow of energy that can support us in a profound way. Tapping into this energy and following its guidance can bring greater balance, wellness, and vitality in all aspects of our lives.
In traditional Chinese Medicine Fall (late September to the Winter Solstice – 12/21 this year) moves us out of the busyness of Late Summer while preparing us for the powerful inward energy of Winter. Fall signifies a period of change as we embrace shorter days, cooler weather, and autumn foliage, and it brings us the opportunity for greater introspection and reflection.
Fall is represented by Metal element and as such, allows us to step into transformation and the process of asking, “What do I need to keep and what do I need to let go of?” Because of this you may be inspired to reorganize or declutter your closet, junk drawer, car, and more. More than any other time of year, you’ll likely reassess the relationships in your life, along with your dreams and goals. Take the time to allow yourself to do this and let go of what no longer serves you.
“I love the transition time between late summer and early fall. The earth smells sweeter, the air crisper, goldenrod covers fields with a sweet yellow color and the sky is a brilliant hue of blue. Within us as well, we may feel a sense of change as the time passes and the days begin to get shorter and darker.”
– Vallerie Mwazo
Represented by the lungs and large intestine, Metal element encourages us breathe deeply and turn our attention to nourishing ourselves by cultivating our minds and taking care of our bodies. Dark green and orange vegetables and pungent foods (onions, garlic, mustard, horseradish, etc.) are ideal to eat during this season as they support the lungs and intestines. Breathwork is a wonderful way to support your lungs (and mental state).
Grounding is another very important way to support yourself during this season. Metal element can be focused on scarcity and/or deprivation. Release this by making time to connect and anchor into Gaia and all her loving support, remembering that all of life is rich and abundant and here to support you, even when it may feel as though it’s not.
This is also a fantastic time to further support yourself by bringing in more of a spiritual connection. It can be as easy as remembering that you are always divinely guided and protected – really allow yourself to feel and believe this and do it often! As you do this, look for and acknowledge with gratitude all the ways in which you are supported. This will further anchor the belief that you are supported in so many ways.
One of the key emotions associated with Metal element is grief. As such, you may find yourself remembering the past – the mistakes you think you’ve made, the losses you’ve experienced – or you may find yourself being nostalgic. Metal doesn’t really like to experience emotions, choosing instead to shove them down in a deep dark hole. But this just creates a festering of emotion. Instead allow yourself to experience the grief that arises, so it can release and heal as well.
The tendency toward self-judgement and perfectionism are parts of this season too. Stay on guard as it can be very easy to tip into being critical and feeling like you’re not good enough. The way through this is to disengage the inner critic when she shows up and focus on something else. Keep your attention on what you are doing well and celebrate your wins. Cultivate a little more Fire element in your life by doing things that bring you joy.
To further support yourself during this season, here are some suggested activities. You don’t need to do all of them, just pick the ones that appeal the most to you.
Add touches of white, cream or gold/silver to your wardrobe or environment.
Take time to ground yourself either through breathwork, meditation, or connecting to the earth.
Exercise regularly – walking or hiking that allows you to enjoy the serenity of nature, or yoga which helps you to go inward.
Remember to eat regularly and drink lots of water.
Cultivate joy in your life.
Bundle up and wear a scarf to protect your lungs.
Practice letting go of negativity, clutter, repressed emotions.
Be kind to yourself and let the inner critic take a hike.
Spend time in open spaces, especially those that feel expansive to you.
Reflect with appreciation on all the many gifts you have in your life.
Fall is a season to slow down and really pay attention to what matters. Breathe deeply and align yourself with gratitude and appreciation while cultivating joy. Embrace the many gifts this season has to offer while reminding yourself of how truly precious and valuable you are.
Up Next: Part 5 – Winter
Want More?
If you’re looking for a way to break through whatever is limiting or holding you back, consider doing an Intensive. Designed specifically to clear out trapped energy and limiting beliefs, an Intensive is a powerful way to support yourself – energetically, emotionally, physically, and mentally.
