Dear Friends and Family,
I hope you enjoyed your Thanksgiving Holiday with loved ones, delicious and nourishing food, and plenty of time to rest and relax. It is such a beautiful time of year to reflect on all that we are blessed with and grateful for.
We are currently in the transition phase between fall and winter. This transition phase ends on December 20, and winter officially begins on the Solstice, December 21st. The winter season relates to our energy systems, which are our kidneys and adrenal glands, which drive our energy, regeneration and filtration.
As we shift from fall, which is the season of our respiratory and immune systems, we want to take good care of our health by getting extra sleep, drinking extra water and getting gentle exercise with mild sweating. It is a time to stay warm, eat soup and stews, and drink hot tea. The transition phases between each season relate to our digestion, as we are literally digesting and transforming that which we have learned and experienced from one season to the next.
Chinese Medicine teaches us to live in Harmony with the seasons, creating more balance between our bodies, minds and emotions, and with the environment around us. It gives us tools such as herbs, spices and foods as well as guidance for the release and healing of our emotions. All of these help to keep our immune systems strong and healthy.
The foods that are the most beneficial during the winter season are; squashes (such as acorn and butternut) yams, sweet potatoes, and vegetables (such as chard, kale, bokchoy, cabbage, carrots, beets and onions). Avocados, apples and pears are also seasonal fall and winter foods. Garlic, ginger, cinnamon and nutmeg are warming, nurturing spices that help to warm us from the inside out.
Grass fed beef, bison lamb, turkey and game hens are strengthening to the bones and immune system, especially prepared in a hearty soup or stew, adding many of the vegetables and spices above. Bone broth can be purchased already prepared at most health food stores and makes an excellent base for a soup or stew. It is particularly strengthening to our digestive and immune systems.
Black beans, kidney beans and lentils also add good fiber and support the kidneys specifically. A slow cooker is a great way to set your self up for a hearty and nourishing meal to come home to at the end of the day.
The emotions related to this season are fear and anxiety. It is a good time to get extra rest allowing our nervous system to relax and your energy system to rejuvenate. Journaling your emotions or talking to a friend or counselor can be really helpful during this time of year. The holidays can add extra stress, and we all need to take time for self love, self care and reflection.
The transition phases between each season are an ideal time for a physical, mental and emotional tune up. It allows us to clear and strengthen the systems of the body we are transitioning out of, as we balance and support the system we are moving into.
The program that would be of the most support to you during this current transition from fall to winter is the New Year New You 14 day anti-Inflammatory program.
Participating in this program, at this time, will strengthen your Immune and Respiratory systems and help to keep you strong and healthy through the holidays and into the New Year. It will also tune up your energy system to give you that extra boost we all need during the holidays.
For more information and to get started CLICK HERE.
For a complimentary discovery call to support you CLICK HERE.
Sending you Love and Blessings for Vibrant Health and Happiness,
Lisa