Supporting Wellness through Seasonal Shifts

As the days become shorter and temperatures begin to drop our immune system can become vulnerable and compromised to the earthly shifts of Mother Nature. We become more susceptible to coughs, colds, sore throats and run-down, or just not feeling quite balanced. These aren’t just random feelings. Often it's our body telling us that they need extra care during climactic transitions. While we might not always connect our health to the changing seasons in modern American culture, traditional systems like Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda have long understood the profound impact of seasonal shifts on our health and well-being.

Traditional Chinese Medicine’s Perspective
In TCM, the change of seasons is a critical time for maintaining health. According to this ancient practice, each one of the seasons is associated with specific organs, elements, and emotions. So, as the air cools, TCM suggests that our lung energy can become vulnerable, making us more susceptible to colds, respiratory issues, and dryness. Because of this TCM emphasizes warming foods, protective herbs like astragalus, and practices like acupuncture to strengthen our defensive Qi (energy) and support the lungs.

Ayurveda: The First Medical System EVERRRR!
Ayurveda is the ancient healing system of India and is another philosophy that speaks to the importance of the seasonal alignment. In Ayurveda, there is a belief that changes between seasons is a time when our bodies are more prone to imbalance. As we move into fall, we may experience colds, dry skin, or anxieties. Ayurveda recommends warming, grounding foods, oil massages, and herbs like ashwagandha and ginger to strengthen immunity, and keep us rooted during these windy, changeable months.

We’ve Lost This Understanding in Modern Society
In American society, we often overlook the connection between our health and the seasons. We live in a fast-paced world, where convenience, productivity, and quick fixes often overshadow ancient wisdom. The disconnect from nature’s rhythms means we might not realize that feeling run down in the fall isn’t just “getting sick”; it’s a sign our bodies are trying to adapt to external changes without the right support. Unlike the holistic approaches of TCM and Ayurveda, our modern culture often leans on over-the-counter medications rather than addressing root causes, nourishing our bodies with seasonal foods, and supporting our immune systems naturally.

Herbs and Remedies for Boosting Immunity During Seasonal Changes
To fortify our health during these transitions, herbs can be powerful allies. Here are a few that we use when we start to feel something coming on.

• Fire Cider: A sweet, sour and spicy concoction with herbs and medicinal foods to support the immune system.  Find my own twist on this classic remedy here!
• Elderberry:  Rich in antioxidants and vitamins, elderberry is a popular herb for supporting immune health, reducing the severity of colds, and offering antiviral properties.
• Ashwagandha: This adaptogenic herb is a cornerstone in Ayurveda, helping the body cope with stress and adapt to change, which is especially beneficial during seasonal shifts.
• Echinacea: Known for its immune-boosting properties, echinacea is commonly used to fend off colds and upper respiratory infections, especially when taken at the first sign of symptoms.
• Ginger: Warming and immune-boosting, ginger supports digestion, circulation, and helps keep the body warm and protected during cooler months.

By embracing the wisdom of these traditional systems, we can learn to see the seasonal transitions not as a time of inevitable illness, but as an opportunity to reconnect with nature, nourish ourselves more deeply, and align with the natural flow of the year. The changing of seasons is a time to turn inward, listen to our bodies, and support ourselves with time-tested herbal remedies that boost immunity, honor our cycles, and keep us vibrant through every seasonal shift.