As darkness falls and the days become shorter, many people feel low in energy and low in mood. Remember that in Nature, Autumn begins the time of hibernation and sleep. For health and wellbeing, it’s important to listen to our bodies and embrace the seasons.

I look for home comforts and warming food. Seasonal autumnal casseroles, soups, warming spices such as cloves, cinnamon and ginger, log fires, and glowing candles become essential to my wellbeing. I love to use the rustic colours of Autumn to warm my heart and lift my spirit.

Yet, it’s really important for me to spend time out of doors, and I recomend that everyone wraps up and takes time out doors to gain Vitamin D, which is essential for many aspects of health.

It’s no surprise that in ancient Chinese Medicine, winter is associated with kidney energy which is the water element and associated with the colour black and cold. I translate this as adrenal energy in which so many people become deficient, as they work and play too hard.

It is important to resist the temptations of the 24 hour material society in which we live, with fluorescent lights, shopping and internet access made possible by excessive stimulation of drugs, alcohol, caffeine, nicotine and quick sugar fixes

So, as winter approaches it is a time of hibernation, for replenishing energy stores and conserving qi which is really important for our wellbeing. Embrace the seasons and enjoy!!