| September 22nd marked the equinox, where summer energy began to phase into fall energy. You feel it in the crispness of the air, and you see it in the changing leaves of the trees. You often hear me talk about and make reference to the movement of energy, whether it’s in the food we eat or how we interact with our environment. The study of Macrobiotics is based on the Traditional Chinese Medicine philosophy that all energy is interconnected. The interconnectedness is rooted in the cyclical passages of seasons and their influence on our bodies. The inner conditions of our bodies determine how we react to the outer changes. We are understanding this concept more than ever since the focus on our immune system these past few years. In TCM, we learn that the fall/autumn season influences the lungs and large intestines. The manifestation of this seasonal energy is felt as we move from the expansive nature of summer to the internal and introspective nature of fall. Organization, setting limits, and protecting boundaries are just a few of the energy traits of the season. To us and to others, who feel the effects of seasonal changes, autumn can also be linked to the emotions of grief and nostalgia. For example, the energy of the lungs is “letting go,” so fall is a good time to be mindful to let go of anything we may be holding on to so that we can make room for new experiences that will help us to learn and grow. Food, the root of effective change in our bodies, is often the support system for this change to be either smooth or stagnant. In this month’s Seasonal Cooking Class, I will detail the food groups best for transitioning to the fall season that will support you physically and emotionally. Sweet roots prepared in a warming manner, such as stews and bakes, give the large intestine-our core-the proper “fire” to motivate metabolism to be most effective. No matter how chaotic, Nature takes the time twice a year to rebalance itself. Food combination and preparation can support a conscious, healthy transition. Join us Saturday, October 15, to learn, experience, and taste fall cooking according to the laws of nature. Let me leave you with this: if we connect to nature’s wisdom…anything is possible. ~Virginia |
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February 2025
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