It's getting cold out there: tips from Ayurveda and TCM

Autumn from the perspective of TCM

Metal is the element associated with autumn. The lungs, nose, large intestine and skin belong to Metal. These organs need extra support in autumn. We protect ourselves from dryness.

The first cool mornings prepare us for the cold of winter, so getting up early is an important way to support your health. Going to bed before the evening gets too cold is recommended. Sour, sweet and warm foods support the flow of Qi; spicy and cold foods block the flow of Lung Qi.

Tips from Ayurveda for a balanced start to autumn

Give yourself a warming, nourishing diet rich in oils and ghee, with spices like ginger and cumin. A warm breakfast (porridge, stewed apple or buckwheat pancakes), followed by soups, stews, chapatis, kitchari (a one-pot meal of rice and dhal) and plenty of warm herbal teas will help.

End the day with warm (plant-based) milk with ginger, nutmeg and a little honey to help you switch off.

Vata is increased by astringent, bitter and pungent tastes, so it’s best to avoid raw food, dry muesli, chickpeas, peas, popcorn, caffeine and sandwiches. Keep all dry, rough and cold foods to a minimum. Cold food and drinks are best avoided, especially in the colder seasons.

Vata’s drying nature dries out the skin. Ground yourself with a daily self-massage using warm sesame oil.

Always massage your belly clockwise: up the right side and down the left. Leave the oil on for 10 minutes, then shower or bathe. A daily massage with a body brush also helps to open up the skin’s surface, clear toxins and support the movement of the lymph.

Eat at regular times, with lunch as your main meal and a light dinner. Try to get up early and sleep at regular times. This is also a good time to bring regularity into your workday by taking regular breaks.

Add more stillness to your day and take time to connect with yourself. Vata is aggravated by feelings of fear and uncertainty, so take time for yourself.

For example: go for a walk, practise calming yoga, meditate, cook, write, paint, …