Embrace the Liminal Space of Autumn

5 Ways to Support the Health of Your Lungs and Large Intestine During Autumn

I love the transitional months of Spring and Autumn, which give me many possibilities in the journeying rather than the static nature of having arrived. The transitional months feel more full of potential. Autumn is a time of transition, a time to let go of what is no longer needed and to make space for new beginnings. In Chinese medicine, the organs associated with this season are the lungs and large intestine. The lungs are responsible for bringing oxygen into the body, and the large intestine is responsible for removing waste. This gives you an idea of movement and shifting through things.

When these organs are in balance, we can breathe freely and easily, let go of emotional baggage, and maintain healthy boundaries. However, when these organs are out of balance, we may experience respiratory problems, difficulty letting go, and a sense of feeling overwhelmed.

Here are some ways to support the health of your lungs and large intestine during Autumn:

• Practise breathing exercises. This can help to calm the mind and body and improve respiratory function.

• Spend time in nature. The fresh air and sunshine can help to cleanse the lungs and boost the immune system.

• Eat a healthy diet. This includes plenty of seasonal fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive caffeine.

• Get enough sleep. This allows the body to rest and repair itself.

• Manage stress. Stress can contribute to respiratory problems, so it is important to find healthy ways to manage stress and practise movement where your slow breathing and movements are aligned.

By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your lungs and large intestine are healthy and strong during Autumn. This will help you to enjoy the season to the fullest and transition smoothly into the winter months.

What’s stimulating my cells this week:

1.      Here is a fascinating video to show you the full capacity of your lungs – are you breathing into your full lung capacity?

2.      The message from Ecuador is clear: people will vote to keep oil in the ground – this was particularly cheering in light of the UK’s plans to scrap water pollution rules as part of efforts to ease the housing crisis. We are better than this, if you agree, here are a few organisations that you might want to get involved with: Surfers Against Sewage  and/or Parents for a Future

3.      Fairbnb: With hotspots groaning under the burden of tourism and rents soaring as holiday lets take over, over tourism is more problematic than ever. Enter Fairbnb, a new platform that puts the benefits of tourism back into the hands of local communities.

What’s going on

1.      In the Press - I have had some great press this month including
How rocking like a baby is the most adult way to relax in The Telegraph – behind a paywall. A mention in the current print issue of Red magazine as well as a mention in Somatic exercises: 3 movements to try at home when you’re feeling overwhelmed in Stylist Magazine. Do let me know what you think.

2.      The Soothe Retreat – 8^th – 10^th September it’s a small group of deep nervous system regulation you will leave with science-backed self-regulation strategies. There is one room left. More details here.

3.      Verve Festival – I’ll be teaching at the Verve Festival on Saturday 16^th at 11 am. See you there.

Please enjoy the breath practice below, it’s for paid subscribers, let me know how you get on.

Thank you for reading. Have a great weekend.

Nahid x