Welcome to the beginning of the Yin season!

This past Friday marked the first day of Autumn; the beginning of the Yin season.  A time when we begin to slow down a little after all the activities of the summer, or Yang, season.  The days start to get a little shorter and the temperature a little cooler; both characteristics of the Yin season.  For some, the ending of the summer season can bring on a sense of sadness.  It makes sense then that the season is associated with a sense of 'letting go' in Traditional Chinese Medicine. 

Traditional Chinese Medicine also associates the season with the lung/large intestine organ pair; with the lungs being the Yin organ of the pair and the skin being considered the third lung.  If you notice a rash or a cold coming on it's possible that your lung Chi is out of balance.  A Yin routine that incorporates some back-bending poses (Sphinx/Seal, Camel, Fish) is a good way to stimulate your lung Chi.

With temperatures varying from day to day, even hour to hour some days, it's a good idea to carry a sweater to protect us from the instability of the season.  It's also a good idea to watch how much dairy we consume as dairy is known to cause excess phlegm in the lungs.  In addition, we can use a Netti pot to clear out our nose; the opening to the lungs.  It's important to take care of ourselves during this time of transition so our bodies are prepared for the winter season.