As the leaves change and fall, I’m reminded of one of the Buddha’s core teachings – ALL things from moment to moment are impermanent, always changing. Each moment of life is another opportunity to receive, let go, start fresh!

Meridians that govern energy of Autumn (Metal) in our bodies are Lung and Colon. Physiologically, the Lungs are in charge of receiving our air – inspiration on one level. On a deeper level, in charge of receiving connection to Spirit or Highest Self. Allowing for clarity, acknowledgment of our own unique roles and gifts in this life. Take some BIG belly breaths, be truly inspired by all that’s around and WITHIN you!

With this time of year being about nourishment, one of the simplest things we can do is CHEW. Many traditions teach the benefits of 50-100 “chews” per bite. First, it is much easier on our entire system when we’re not asking it to break down huge pieces of food. Second, it encourages needing less in a given meal. Finally, it can be a wonderful meditation to just BE with what fuels our body, mind, and spirit. So CHEW!

One of the aspects of the Spleen meridian is all about “movement”. It distributes the raw Qi broken cultivated by the Stomach to every corner of our body, mind, spirit… allowing us to really integrate our experiences. This is a great time of year to get something done that perhaps was being putting off. Especially if it’s creative or nourishing, like a project around the house or maybe a cooking class.

The energetic taste of Earth is “sweet”. And so the functions of our Spleen/Stomach meridians can be kick-started by eating a bit of sweet food in the morning. Now, I’m not talking about a sugar-filled rampage! But more like a piece of fruit, or perhaps some agave (honey-like but with a lower glycemic index) lightly drizzled on something.