October 2006 vol 1#9
Autumn Harmony & Balance
by Marianne Zamierowksi
Autumn is in the air! This is a natural time to cleanse, renew and rebuild the body, mind and spirit. The two organs that naturally come to mind are the lungs and colon, both related to the Metal Element and both warranting protection and cleansing. This is the time of year to release toxins that may contribute to more serious dis-eases at a later time, such as cold and flu. The Inner Classic, an ancient Chinese text, tells us that "The forces of Autumn create dryness in Heaven and metal on Earth; they create the lung organ and the skin upon the body... and the nose, and the white color, and the pungent flavor... the emotion grief, and the ability to make a weeping sound."
Some characteristics of distress are:
- Holding on to excess emotions, especially grief and heartache
- Dry, patchy, scaly skin
- Mucus in sinus, nasal and air passages
- Inability to let go; holding on to attachments; feeling regretful
- Constipation
Digestive Harmony:
Grounding and nourishing foods that help to stay balanced are dark green leafy and bright high-fiber root vegetables like pumpkin, turnips, ginger, and garlic. Below is a simple pureed soup, using roasted vegetables:
Roasted Sweet Potato and Apple Soup
- 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1" cubed
- 1 red apple, peeled and cubed
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled
- 2 T olive oil
- 3 - 4 C vegetable stock
- yogurt & ginger garnish, if desired
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 450 F
- Place potatoes, apple, onion and garlic in baking pan and drizzle with oil. Roast uncovered, stirring every 10 minutes until soft, about 40 minutes
- Place vegetables in blender and cover with broth.
- Transfer to stock pot to heat
- Spoon into bowls and top with yogurt; add freshly grated ginger if desired
Emotional Balance:
Aromatherapy helps release blocked emotions. Especially helpful to use are:
Lungs - eucalyptus, lavender and scots pine
Colon - fennel, patchouli, bergamot, sweet orange
Make time to get in nature and enjoy earth's blessed bounty. Repeat this balancing affirmation: "I feel loved and supported. The universe always provides for me. All of my needs are met."
Marianne Zamierowski, nutrition author, speaker and consultant, lives and teaches a balanced and holistic approach to Body, Mind & Spirit wellness! She is certified in Weight Management and Neurotransmitter Systems, specializing in Bioenergetic Assessment.
For more information visit www.BetterBodyBalance.com.