Thursday, September 15, 2011

Time to let go...

I have had a flood of emotions in the last few weeks. Along with attending a wedding, I have also had to attend one funeral and grief the lost of another friend. Such emotions remind me that autumn is coming and this season teaches us to let go. Autumn brings the end of the growing season.

The lung and large intestine are the organs related to the fall season. These organs are associated with the emotion of taking in and letting go. It is also a time of turning inward. Leaves turn color and return back to the earth, enriching it with nutrients for the new harvest in the spring. Essentially, the lesson of this season is to return to our roots. Though things are dying, this natural rhythm has to happen in order for spring to come.

The change in seasons can be challenging at times. Staying balance while you are adjusting to changing weather conditions can cause stress to your body. Grief, sadness and depression are more prevalent during this season due to the ending of summer and the change in light. Acupuncture and Chinese medicine can help your body handle the emotions of grief this season.

Grief tends to settle into the chest center, weakening the breath. It is very important to regularly take breaths that are full and deep, which grounds your body. Also, drinking at least 8 cups of water per day is important during periods of sorrow. Fluids help to keep the meridians open while flushing toxins out of the system; thus, supporting the body in maintaining balance while under stress.

Do not let the natural rhythm of the fall season get you down. Use this time to cleanse yourself and to strengthen your body and soul for the long winter to come.


Below are other suggestions for living in harmony with the autumn season:
• The lungs and large intestine are considered the main organs for detoxing and cleansing the body. Therefore, this is a good time to do a cleanse. There are many cleanses out there you need to do some research to find the one best suited for you.
• Flower essences can also be effective in gently balancing the body. For example, Bach’s Rescue Remedy is good for grief. Follow direction on the bottle for usage.
• Go through your medicine cabinet and check for expiration dates. Toss any medication that is expired.
• It is also a good time to examine any “negative” attitudes (prejudices, envies, jealousies, etc.) stored within your consciousness. Is your mind and your body are ready to depart with these attitudes. It is time to let go. Try writing your issues down on paper. Be as specific as possible, and then burn the paper, mentally releasing your problems.
• Finally, below is an Acupressure and Deep Breathing technique to help you release depression:
1. Lie down on your back or sit comfortably, with your spine straight, and feet flat on the floor (you can place a pillow under your knee if that feels better).
2. Reach up toward the ceiling with both hands; take a deep breath, and hold it in for a few seconds, make tight fists and squeeze, tightening all the muscles in your arms.
3. Slowly exhale, bringing your fists down and keep the fist form, to your chest.
4. Repeat steps 2 & 3 several times.
5. Then, cross your arms at the wrists over the center of your upper chest, now release and extended fingers so that your fingers are pressing the upper outside area of the chest, (This point is Lung 1, also known as Letting Go).
6. While you are pressing Lung 1, inhale, filling your lungs completely and expanding your stomach. Hold the breath for a few seconds and then exhale slowly through your mouth.
7. Pull your belly button to your spine and continue pressing on Lung 1.
8. Repeat this entire exercise (steps 1 – 7) for two or three minutes, concentrate on the depth and rhythm of your breath.