The Season of Letting Go & Nourishment

A Note from Me

This newsletter reaches you a little late, as we’ve already passed the Autumnal Equinox, though with the lingering warm days, it’s hard to believe we’re already deep into the second half of autumn.

I’ve been a little busier than expected (life seems to flow that way sometimes), so thank you for your patience. I’ve just returned from Australia, leaving my sister in a truly positive place; she’s doing brilliantly! Seeing her strength and recovery has been deeply heartening and fills me with immense gratitude.

The Energy of Autumn in Chinese Medicine

In Chinese Medicine, autumn belongs to the Metal element, governing the Lungs and Large Intestine. This is the season of transition, reflection, and release a time to clear what no longer serves us, both physically and emotionally.

Just as trees shed their leaves, we too are invited to let go of clutter, grief, and old patterns to make space for renewal.

As temperatures fluctuate and the air becomes drier, the Lungs and immune system are more vulnerable. Protecting and nourishing Lung Qi during this season strengthens our defences against colds, coughs, and fatigue.

Wisdom from the Classics

“One should follow the seasonal Qi to preserve vitality. Rest early to avoid the night winds and rise early to enjoy the crisp autumn air. Keep a calm and peaceful mindset, reel in mental energy, avoiding anxiety and impulsiveness to balance autumnal Qi and harmonise Lung Qi. This is the way of nourishing life and preventing disease.”

This timeless advice from the ancient texts reminds us that autumn is a season for calm, introspection, and gentleness with ourselves.

Nurturing Yourself This Autumn

Protect Your Lungs & Balance Your Qi

Wear a scarf and dress in layers

Protecting the neck and chest prevents Wind and Cold from entering the body.

Rest earlier

The evenings draw in, allow your body to follow nature’s rhythm.

Breathe deeply

Spend time outdoors, especially in the early morning, taking slow, mindful breaths to strengthen Lung Qi.

Let go

Release negativity, emotional tension, and what no longer supports you. This might mean decluttering your home or even booking a counselling session for inner renewal.

Nourish Yin & Moisten the Body

As autumn’s air becomes cool and dry, the body can experience dryness in the throat, skin, or digestion. To counter this, favour Yin-nourishing and moistening foods that hydrate from within.

Moistening, Yin-Supporting Foods

Tofu · Tempeh · Spinach · Barley · Pears · Apples · Millet · Persimmons · Seaweed · Mushrooms · Almonds · Pine nuts · Sesame seeds · Cabbage · Eggs · Pork · Honey · Olive oil · Shiitake · Parsnip · Brussel sprouts · Broccoli · Chestnut · Leek · Tangerine · Peach · Fig · Grapefruit · Black beans · Oats · Red rice · Sweet potato · Pumpkin · Beetroot · Dates

White-toned foods also support the Metal element and Lung Qi:Radish (daikon) · Cauliflower · Turnip · Garlic · Onion · Ginger · Horseradish · Mushrooms · Fermented foods

Foods to Limit

Avoid foods that promote dampness, such as:Bananas · Potatoes · Sugar · Bread · Dairy · Fried foods · Roasted peanuts

These can create phlegm, congestion, and sluggishness, making it harder for the Lungs to function optimally.

Warming & Comforting Cooking Tips

• Choose cooked over raw foods, such as soups, stews, and roasted vegetables, which nourish and ground the body.

• Use gentle warming spices like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cardamom.

• Avoid chilled drinks or raw salads, which can weaken digestion as the weather cools.

Autumn Nourishing Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 Asian (or any) pears, cored and sliced

• 10g dried white fungus (soaked until soft)

• 15g goji berries

• 1L water

• 1–2 tsp rock sugar or honey

Moistening Pear & White Fungus Soup

Method:

1. Simmer the pears and white fungus in water for 30 minutes.

2. Add goji berries and sweeten with honey or rock sugar to taste.

3. Serve warm and savour slowly.

This gentle tonic helps moisten the Lungs, soothe dryness, and support immunity, the perfect companion for cool evenings.

Enjoy!