Fall Diet: Autumn’s Yin Within Yang

In many climates, autumn is characterized by the start of drying and cooling. This time of year is said to be the Yin within Yang. We’ve talked about how Taoist Yin and Yang concepts balance the light and dark found in nature, but in Traditional Chinese Medicine, they also define the two types of energy. Yin energy is feminine, cold and internal, while Yang is male, hot and eternal. 

As the Yang energy of summer begins to decrease, a small amount of Yin energy begins to appear in the form of colder nights and mornings. Just as fall’s natural movement pattern is directed inward, the body’s energies respond by starting to gather internally. 

So what can you do to compensate for this onset of external cold? A diet of oats, millet, corn, rice, carrots, leeks, radishes, cauliflower, beef and lamb is a great way to nourish your body’s energy. If a person feels internally cold or shivering—or is experiencing cold symptoms—garlic, cinnamon, chili, ginger and onions will help.

While the climate is still damp, warm, dry foods—such as millet, rice, cherries and ginger—are appropriate. And when the weather trends more toward dryness, moist foods such as pears, melons, tomatoes, grapes, wheat, pine nuts, pork, tofu and peanuts, are a great dietary addition. 

Your diet also can help fend off illnesses more common in cooler weather. Avoiding fatty and oily foods, as well as cool or cold dairy products, can be a great tool in helping prevent bronchitis and sinusitis. 

And, as always, if you do find yourself facing down that cool-weather cold, acupuncture can help relieve your symptoms and boost your immunity! Click here to schedule your appointment today.