autumn’s invitation: embracing clarity
journey into the season of discernment with insights from qigong
After a bustling and eventful summer, there are moments when I find myself yearning to hit the brakes, crawl beneath the cosy duvet, and hang out a sign that reads: 'Wake me up in spring.' Yet, there's a contradictory sensation, for I have a deep love of autumn. I cherish these crisp, lucid days, when golden leaves dance against electric blue skies. These are the days when each inhalation seems to infuse me with clarity, and each exhalation gently releases the grip of old, stuck patterns. Remarkably, these are the most inspiring days of the year.
As I look around, I notice nature mirroring these patterns of change. The entire natural world readies itself for the impending winter. Squirrels scurry to gather nuts, while we embark on our modern-day equivalent: returning to school or filling our calendars with renewed enthusiasm, capitalising on the milder weather. However, the energy that propels our actions during autumn differs subtly from what we do in spring. Autumn feels purposeful, as if the year is pushing us forward, urging us to do the same. It's during this season that I tend to focus on what truly matters to me.
In Qigong and Chinese medicine, autumn is associated with the element of metal. This season's organs of focus are the lungs and the large intestine. Their functions align with the rhythms of autumn in Chinese medicine. Through mindful breathing, we can support our body's immune system, especially during exhalation, which aids in detoxification. The large intestine plays a crucial role in releasing what we no longer need. Autumn highlights qualities of value, discernment, and appreciation. Metal strips away the superfluous, leaving behind what's essential.
So, how can we work with these energies? The metal element is multifaceted, and the following suggestions emphasize some of its qualities that we can balance during this season.
1. Cultivate Appreciation: In Julia Cameron's book, "Finding Water" (the final installment of "The Artist's Way" trilogy), she offers simple ways to nurture appreciation. Start by listing five things you cherish and gradually expand the list. Take sensory walks and note the beauty around you. Begin with a list of five things you find beautiful. Explore scents and pay attention to what you appreciate.
2. Explore Your Breath: There are numerous ways to do this. Start with a short breath inquiry, either standing or seated, placing your hands on your belly. Observe your breath without judgment. Pay attention to its length, depth, and quality. Explore the inhale's promise and the exhale's relaxation. This practice can enhance mental clarity. If you need more ideas, why not read this article sharing some of my favourite breathing practices.
3.Declutter: While spring is often associated with cleaning, autumn invites us to follow nature's lead. Trees shed what no longer serves them, and so can we. Decluttering not only simplifies our surroundings but also fosters mental clarity.
4. Slow Down: As autumn ushers in a shift in energy, consider aligning yourself with nature's rhythms. Embrace the prevailing change, slow your pace, and feel the connection to the season's pace.
5. Nurture Your Skin: Take a moment to care for your skin, the boundary between you and the world. Consider pampering yourself with a massage or exploring new ways to connect with your skin's ability to breathe. Reflect on how you move within your own skin.
Photo by Jeremy Thomas on Unsplash