As we step outside we may notice the trees swaying and the breeze softly our cheeks, the signs of the impending slow descent of small and large leaves as they get ready to be composted into the earth and recycle their lifespan. More squirrels are busy tending to their acorns, scurrying about and the sounds of birds is a little less pronounced, more soft and distant.
This is the onset of autumn, a time for quietness. Its a period at which we close our eyes and take moments of rest between our day. Its a signal that it is time to shift from the fire rich beams of the sun that empowered us from summer for the cooling shelter of the colorful trees that most grab our attention in autumn.
Internally our bodies are preparing for this season and with this we can take the opportunity to prepare our own mind and body so that we may be ready for our own harvest. We may begin with our mind. This is a good time to take reflection of that which we have gained from the season past, what strengths we have built within ourselves that can be nourishing for our new season? What is our motivation? What do we seek to clear and make room to take root so that we may continue on in our healthy pathway?
With this seasons approach I like to take out my vision board and review what I have written as key elements for the year. I like to look at what has come to pass and what may already be in the works and developing at this time. I often get the itch to buy myself a new journal during this transition period. It seems by chance that my journals tend to run out of paper as I approach a new season.
Our bodies can also due with some attention to prepare for autumn. We may want to assess the foods that we are eating and ask ourselves if they are in line with what is abundant in nature. Are we eating with the seasons? Acorn squash, pumpkins, root vegetables, potatoes and leafy greens will become more prominent. Taking in good quality oils like olive oil, avocado and nut oils can help to aid the dryness that our skin, hair and bodies are experiencing due to this season.
Wherever you may be in the world, even as the seasons may not be as apparent in your surrounds, take stock of the season and what the universe has to offer you during this time. Clear out what no longer serves you and lay the foundation for what can create a beautiful harvest to be enjoyed inside your bodies and out.
Share your thoughts on the season changes and what you are reflecting on.
Hi Safara,
My 11 year old daughter is healing her ulcerative colitis after a stay this summer at HHI. Her digestion is still very sensitive, but she longs to have more variety in her diet. Can you recommend any foods (raw and cooked) that worked for you in the early healing stage. She now eats primarily almond milk, avocado, sprouted quinoa, squash, and green juice. Thank you so much,
Rebecca.
Dear Rebecca, I am sorry to have been writing this reply to you at such a late date. May this find you in your quest to assist your daughter living well.
Diversifying her diet is something to take gradually with support from a professional nutritionist. What I will say is that I have been able to bring cooked vegetables, other gluten-free grains like millet and rice as well as fish into my diet. I have found this to help create a nourishing balance to my meals. Milks such as hemp and almond continue to be a part of my healthy diet.