Staying Healthy

An Approach to Winter

   In the page "More About Natural Living", I mentioned writing about how the seasons affect us. Some of it will be observations and experiences through my own research, but also articles and the concept of the seasons through Chinese medicine. The references to Chinese medicine will include things such as the element associated with the season, as well as body organs, climate, taste, emotion, foods to include or avoid. These references are helpful and informative, however in addition to that, at some point I would like to have additional articles on how things like light and color and emotions and stress also affect us. Diet and nutrition are also important topics. So here at least is a beginning.

Winter

   The days were growing noticeably shorter even in late

Gardiner's Bay and Gardiner's Island

August. But August found us in our cycle called Later Summer (in Chinese medicine and lore), and blending into Autumn. Now in December we should be in winter, with the Winter Solstice about to occur, even though mild temperatures here make us wonder if it is truly winter. And yet we had some cold blasts, where this morning, on December 6th, it was only 13 degrees in Westhampton. Thanksgiving was cold as well, with snow on the ground up near the mountains. So it has been a mixture of mild and cold weather. Winter officially begins on the Winter Solstice on December 21st.


   Despite the temperatures, yes darkness comes earlier, and our energy retreats towards winter patterns. The rain and cold remind us that it is leaning more towards Winter, or when a storm approaches with high winds and a sharper chill to the air, we know freezing temperatures may soon be the norm.
   According to Chinese medicine, Winter is governed by the element of Water. We become introspective in Winter, and things go more dormant for a period of rest, in order to emerge again in the Spring. The trees have shed their leaves, plants wither and die and go to seed, waiting for the next cycle.
   Water is essential to life. In our body, fluids like blood flowing are important, as well as the fluids in the lymph system, which help to process and eliminate waste so you can fight infections. There is also fluids like saliva, perspiration, tears and urine. Everything is flowing, and should be flowing. Water is part of the circulation system, perhaps like the oceans for the earth.

   The body organs that dominate in the Winter cycle are the bladder and kidneys. The climate associated with Winter and Water is cold, and the compass direction for Winter is the North.
   I have read that the kidneys are nourished by cold, but extreme cold and or wetness can weaken the kidneys. I think of the few times I have been in desert areas of the world, with such a compelling dryness, and remember what a different feeling when compared to humidity. I remember being in Colorado as well, in higher altitudes, and having the skin on my hands cracking from the dry air, which I was not used to, and coming home to breathe in moist air for my lungs. In Israel it is hot during the day, and then cold at night, and also dry. The wind also takes moisture out of your body there, so you must drink a great deal of water especially if you are outdoors. It was a harsh environment it seemed, which would put stress on our bodies and systems if we are not used to it, but we can always adapt. I know recently while visiting the local mountains, the Catskill area, it was 64 degrees in November, but there was a damp and biting wind and no sun and I was indeed chilled to the bone. You can think back to your own experiences with temperatures and conditions and remember how it felt, or be more conscious of this in the future.

The Element of Water Governs Winter

   The taste that is associated with Winter is salt. Interestingly most water has salt in it, as well as our blood, and also of course the oceans. If you crave salt or dislike salt you may have a Water imbalance. If you eat too much salt, it creates a craving for water and can weaken the kidneys. Salt can also cause water retention and toxins to be held, so we can become easily toxic. Salt intake is also linked to high blood pressure. There will most likely be another whole article on salt, but best not to add it to food, and if you must use salt in cooking, use something more natural like sea salt, as table salt has alot of chemicals and additives, in addition to being bleached.

   The emotion of Winter is fear, whether it be anxiety, stress or any other emotion. Trembling is actually a water imbalance and is a release of fearful energy and tension. Think of the expression "paralyzed with fear" - fear can be a very powerful emotion, and can create blockages. Fear in some ways blocks many things, because it numbs you.

   The sound of Winter is groaning. Have you ever heard trees that grown in the wind during a storm? Their branches creak and groan. For people, the sound of a groan comes from deep within.

Some Considerations

   So what can you do to fortify yourself or flow with the ways of the Winter season?

   Well first think about Water and emotions. Water can be calm, still or gentle, or stormy, and hard to contain. How do you feel when you become too emotional? We may feel drained, and we can easily become exhausted and run down. We also need to remember that our kidneys are a filter for the blood systems and also ridding the body of toxic waste and heavy metals. So we can eat well and cleanse, although Spring is technically the time for deep cleansing.

   Negativity can also be harmful, and must be eliminated from the body, believed to be processed out through the bladder. So it is important to be positive and have a good attitude, and using positive affirmations on a daily basis.

   Other suggestions that might help in the Winter season include things like massage, where it will work on the meridians associated with the kidney, for example, along the spine. Massage also helps to relieve tension and toxins. Yoga is also excellent, providing stretching, relaxation and reducing stress.

   With diet and nutrition, you would want to eat foods that provide a little more heat, eat a little heavier, but not too heavy. Everything should be in moderation. When you over eat at Thanksgiving you often feel heavy and bloated.
   Your diet for winter should include hot soups with plenty of fresh vegetables, and spices that warm like ginger, garlic and cayenne pepper. Small amounts of whole grains are good fuel in winter, like millet, buckwheat, brown rice with red or black beans or lentils. Remember do not add salt to your food, because there is already some salt in your food, and we do need some salt. Sea salt is the most natural. If you bathe in the ocean or take a mineral bath, the stored salts and toxins will be drawn out. Food will taste like real food without adding alot of salt. I gave up adding salt to my food, sometimes substituting with garlic or onion instead.

   It is also important to keep warm in the winter - sitting by the fire, or with a blanket and a hot herbal tea or soup. Eating more cooked warm foods as opposed to cold or raw in winter. 

   Before long the days will get longer and the sunshine brighter, bringing about another whole new cycle of rebirth to look forward to.

Stay warm,
Maery

(remember to always follow the advice of your health care professional when it comes to health, diet and exercise)

Connecting to the Earth - A Rock Mosaic

   In August the Sun begins to wane, the quality of light becomes softer, almost gentler, slowing us down after the mad pace of the world and the events of the Summer, where we try to relive our childhood Summer days at the beach or mountains, fields, meadows or lakes. Taking stock of things, becoming more grounded it seems, as we pass through late Summer and into the beginnings of Fall. The ever changing seasons, bringing a new perspective as we pass through each one.

   As part of living a natural life - and certainly not preplanned - was the spontaneous creative urgency to create a natural border along side a path I  built to access the back yard. Simple squares from the nursery, one foot by one foot, created a meandering path in and amongst the dark compost and pine needles. The stones I chose were earthy toned, a bit of reddish brown, to compliment the dark soil and greenery. Grounding, solid and exact in their geometry and dimensions.
   Parts of the earth surrounding the new stones were sloping and so to keep the earth intact I took several random stones and pressed them into the soft ground as a border, to enhance the area and keep the dirt in place and not wash away.
   An amazing thing happened, because it all began to fall into place, naturally it seemed. My fingers eagerly pressing the various shaped rocks into the ground. Nothing symmetrical - it was more wavy in nature - hence a water influence perhaps which created a unique pattern that seemed to flow. A great deal of blood, sweat and mud went into this - especially proud when as the days went by the rocks actually began to look like they belonged there and had always been there.
   Most of the rocks were mainly found through out the property - all shapes and sizes and patterns - making it appear natural and organic as though something had poured the rocks from above and they settled in a random but fitting pattern. I tried taking rocks from another pathway but no, it didn't feel right to remove them. The rocks from the other pathway were there for several years, already blended and at home. Secure in their pattern.
   In doing this it felt like I made something more beautiful. As I worked in the heat of Late Summer I began to sweat and feel uncomfortable, but in doing so - it not only connected me to the earth but also to myself. I began to shed all the worries and fears of daily life, felt the stress melting away. The more I worked and the more I sweated my muscles and limbs became looser. My fingers were sore yet somehow more nimble, like they did when playing the piano, a long lost memory. 
   I began to look forward to working on the border every morning, early, before the Sun came blazing over the house and into the yard. After awhile I was compelled to do it, by something taking me over, something connecting me to the earth and nature, to the very rocks themselves. It made me whole again.
   Every rock was a different shape, color, grain and texture which was part of the beauty of it all. If a rock or series of rocks did not belong - you could automatically feel it and they would have to be moved or replaced. Sizes need to vary to create what the land needed, and the spacing between the rocks also had to be balanced and then there was the nearness to the patio stones. All flowing naturally, weaving, blending. A certain amount of rocks had to be large, which were smooth and rounded, as though anchors for the design. Smaller stones in and out amongst the larger anchors fell like raindrops scattering and becoming solid when they hit the earth, some magic transformation. In color it seemed to call for the darker stones, other whiter pebbles seemed at times a harsh contrast.
   One side did not seem to flow. It called for smaller and more random stones, like a sprinkle of bread crumbs from Hansel and Gretel. I redid that section five or six times, plucking stones, changing sizes until at last it felt like it flowed.

   By the time it was done the rocks appeared to be growing out of the earth, as much a part of the landscape as the rhododendrons and Virginia Creeper, and the delicate ground cover I added of Creeping Veronica, as well as some clover present, for the rabbits of course, for originally this was their place to take naps and listen to me talk on the phone in the late afternoons as evening would approach. The pattern now seemed complete and it gives me joy every day when I walk along the stones.
   Humans crave symmetry, because we are made that way, and nature can provide the natural patterns.

Living with nature,
Maery

Autumnal Equinox 2018
   I hesitated to write this season's Equinox article because the weather has been so strange. Each season is usually clearly delineated, but lately nothing has been normal with the weather. A warm winter, at the beach in February, cold and rainy in Spring with the heat on until May, and then blistering heat for the summer. Our first hurricane of the season was a rain event with much flooding. Things are barely cooling down as we approach this year's Autumnal Equinox. What kind of winter will we have?
   
  This coming week will bring us the Autumnal Equinox on September 22nd. Things have slowly been transitioning back and forth between Late Summer and Autumn these last few weeks. The days are getting shorter, the air is cooler, there is a distinct sense of slowing down. A time of transition, so we should be careful to watch our health as well.
   Below I will include the health tips for this particular season as a reminder to nurture and care for ourselves. Be kind to yourself and be careful of stress as we make the changes to Autumn and then Winter.


Autumn and Health

Autumn grasses

   Autumn is a time of reflection. Summer has ended and we move into another cycle of change which will ease us into winter. Once the harvest is over, things will begin to go dormant. A time of rest, reflection and regrouping. What we do for ourselves in the time of Autumn in regards to our health and well being will surely fortify us for the long winter to come.
   Autumn begins officially on September 22nd on the Autumnal Equinox - when the night's darkness equals the length of the day, and now nights will become longer, until December 21st on the Winter Solstice, which is the longest night. The days then slowly become longer.
   Animals start to gather food for winter, and we all slow down from the fast pace of Summer. Each cycle is in preparation for the next.
   In the Chinese Five Element Theory, Autumn is associated with the element of Metal. Metal governs communication such as phones, television, transportation and speech. People who talk alot or talk too much have an imbalance of Metal. Metal is also associate with the minerals of the Earth.
   Metal is expressed in the mind and expression in the development of ideas, creativity, writing and speaking.
   Its direction is the West, which is where the Sun sets. So it makes sense, Autumn represents endings, the sunset of our lives for the season. The color associated with Metal is white. If you need Metal you can decorate with more white or incorporate more white into your wardrobe.

Autumn colors

   The emotions that relate to Metal are worry, grief and sorrow. A moderate amount of these emotions is reasonable, but excess can injure or affect the lungs or large intestine, which are the We remember the good times of the recent past, we remember our loved ones who have passed away. Again it is good to reminisce but not to hold onto the past. Autumn can be a time of letting go, deciding what needs to stay and what needs to go. Together with emotions, the sound of Metal is weeping or crying. It is all right to shed tears, it is a normal release of emotions, but not to take over your whole life or interfere with your daily life. If you notice in September it always seems to be a time of reflection of where one has come, and remembering those have gone from our lives.
   The sense organ of Metal is the nose, and then of course the sense associated with Metal is the sense of smell. Our sense of smell is very keen, and is a direct conduit to the brain through the olfactory nerves. Using essential oils during the Autumn months as things transition could be very helpful. Mint is very cleansing but also very calming and good for the emotions. Lavender too is very relaxing. Find what scents work for you. It would seem Autumn would need musky, earthy smells, combined with something medicinal and cleansing as well. To ground oneself and cleanse at the same time would be ideal.
   The flavor of metal is spicy or pungent, with things like peppers or mustard, which help to pen the sense, clear the sinuses and stimulate the lungs. However, too much spice can injure the lungs.
   The body fluid connected with Metal is mucus. One of the functions of mucus is to coat and protect the mucus membranes and the fluid can wash away debris and bacteria. Excess mucus can indicate a Metal imbalance, not enough water or eating too much mucus producing foods. It can promote accumulation of bacteria and also cause inflammation which is a key factor in many disease states.
   The climate is dryness. A state of being too dry or too wet is not ideal and is not helpful. So there needs to be a balance. If your home has heat via hot air, you may need to humidify your air. If you live in a damp area such as near the water, you will need to worry about mold accumulating in the air and the home, so an air purifier might be needed, or a dehumidifier if extremely wet. Each place requires different things, but you can work towards gaining balance.

 The organs for Metal are the lungs and large intestines. They are about taking in nutrients and expelling waste products. It is easy to see that if these organs become inhibited by toxins that the rest of the body will suffer, for toxins can build up and clog the systems.
   Diet is important of course, but so are environmental toxins such as pollution and cigarette smoke. If you live in a city or area that is heavy polluted you might want to invest in an air purifier for your home, especially the bedroom. I also use a mister with mint water to purify the air. If you have central air conditioning make sure to clean the filters regularly. Keep the home free of dust by vacuuming and cleaning often.
   One the of the best ways to purify the air in your space is to have plants. They are great ecology cleaners and clean toxins from the air. Plants do best with a southern or eastern exposure -depending on where you live.
   Deep breathing is also essential for lung health and for cleansing as well.
   Problems with lungs can turn up in the skin and hair.
   Lungs do not do well in a cold, damp climate so it is important to keep warm
   Congestion of the large intestines leads to dysfunction and can cause abdominal discomfort as well as back aches in the low to mid back area. It can also cause pressure in the head, nose, sinus, neck and result in headaches, sore throats, and lack of energy.
   Dietary considerations fro both the lungs and large intestines include eliminating alcohol, fatty foods, fried food and chemicals and preservatives, as well as meats, dairy and refined foods. Eating fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, high amounts of fiber and foods low in fat is helpful. Mucus forming foods include dairy, meat and sugar. Also try to avoid too much caffeine.
   A cold is often a sign that toxins have built up in the body.
   Since Metal is associated with the mind, meditation is also helpful. It allows the mind to relax and repair instead of being constantly supercharged by all the stimulation of modern times with televisions, phones and computers.
   Autumn is a good time to do a cleanse, however always remember to check with your doctor before making any dietary changes. Cleansing, eating properly and exercise and proper rest will help to set the tone for having a healthy Winter.

Be well,
Maery

Late summer

Living a Natural Life Within Change

The Element of Earth

Changing with the Seasons - Late Summer

   Every year around this time, the beginning of August, a cold front comes through, making an unusually cool morning and day, that to me somehow signals the beginning of the end of Summer and the onset of Fall. Change is in the air. But this year, everything is different. We have had the most unusual weather patterns and things changing back and forth from many extremes. This year I felt a shift in late July. It was a night that suddenly felt different, slightly cooler, with a chill not felt for some time. It almost felt like September. It signaled another change, perhaps not as pronounced as the usual August shift, but more subtle, but nevertheless there. And yet in the  midst of everything changing back and forth, we are in the middle of a heat wave.
   And also this time of year is called Later Summer in Chinese medicine, and so we must adjust once again, as the daylight hours begin to grow noticeably shorter.
   It is also a time when the harvest begins, so it is a good time for letting things go, while reaping the rewards of our endeavors at the same time.
   Late Summer is associated with the element of earth, which seems to make sense because it is the time of harvesting crops from the Earth, at least here in the U.S. With the influence of earth one can become more grounded, take stock of oneself and one's life, reflecting on the events of Summer and preparing for Fall.
   From the element of fire comes the production of earth, through the ashes, as we manifest things in the physical. Summer projects or ideas come to fruition.
   Earth also nourishes, for example when you think of Mother Earth, the maternal nurturing aspect. This season, according to Chinese medicine, governs the stomach and spleen, so digestion becomes important. All too often we see stomach viruses in the Summer/Late Summer cycle. We need to slow down and take care of ourselves, which is sometimes hard in the fast pace of today's society. So it is a good reminder to ourselves. The stomach and spleen work together to digest and give energy and nutrition needed. Diet, as always, is important, building in some heavier proteins, whole grains, seeds, nuts and beans instead of the light salads and juices of midsummer. But not to forget the fresh produce and vegetables as well, and not to go to extremes with alcohol or heavy meals. Of course do not change your diet or habits drastically if you have certain health conditions and always notify your doctor or health care practitioner of any changes you make.
   It is important to be flexible in this time of transition, and not to resist the changes that are coming. We begin to ease slowly from Summer towards Fall, then inevitably Winter.
   The sense organ associated with Late summer is the mouth and taste, so again to do with not only digestion and assimilation, but also nutrition and nurturing oneself. The mouth also enables us to speak out our ideas and expressions, and singing also goes with the element of earth. A doctor once told me singing is healthy - it gets out any locked up emotions or hidden angers. The sound of earth is singing, so this makes sense. So feel free to sing in the shower if you don't want anyone to hear you, or sing along in the car to the radio or cd's. 
   The fluid for Late Summer is saliva, which also helps us to begin the digestion of food, so have an Autumn harvest feast of fresh foods to celebrate Late Summer. The lips is the organ where you can detect imbalances, whether they are dry, cracked or peeling. This is an indication of imbalance somewhere in the body, and to do with the element of earth.

Rocks go with the element of earth

   The compass direction that goes with earth is the center, which is not surprising, as we try to ground and center ourselves at this time of year, through the influence of the element of earth. In Feng shui, the center of the house is to do with health and healing, so it is good to keep the center of the home clean and clear of clutter. Put a sparkling clear crystal in the center of the home to radiate the seven colors of the spectrum.
   The climate to do with Late Summer is moist, and here where I reside it is a time of high humidity. Humidity moistens things and allows things to grow and come to fruition and to have less friction. Too much moisture however can promote the growth of mold and too much dampness is not good either. People who despise humidity with a vengeance may have an earth imbalance. In contrast, think of the desert where it is so dry and hot. Or in the mountains of Colorado it is so dry that my skin would crack, and lungs would hurt to breathe, since I am accustomed to the moisture and humidity of the east coast.
   The emotion to do with earth is sympathy. Although it can be wonderful to be empathetic and sympathetic in our daily lives, especially towards others, there is always a danger here to be too giving. If you give too much and sacrifice yourself for others, you can be draining your own energy and emotional reserves. For those who give too much, learn to say no sometimes. And for people who are "cold" like the cold earth, learn to give some more warmth to self and others.
   The color to do with earth is yellow. It is a bright and cheerful color, and reminds me of the sun, and like the sun, yellow brings warmth into our lives. You can use the color yellow during this time, whether you have too much earth or not enough. Everything is a balance.
   The smell of Late Summer is fragrant, like the ripe flowers, berries and crops. Use aromatherapy with fruitlike scents or anything that is fragrant - like lavendar.
   The tissue with earth is the flesh and muscles, so it is a good time to build strength through exercise, and gain strength before the Winter months come.
   As we head toward Fall, things can become bittersweet, cherishing our memories but also knowing that now a new cycle begins.

Be well,
Maery

Summer Solstice 2018

Summer Solstice - Another Cycle Begins.....

   It felt like we had no Spring this year. Nothing but cold, and rain almost every day. Darkness when there should have been light, warmth when there was cold, rain soaking our spirits and hearts with a kind of pervasive heaviness. It seemed to be an extension of Winter, being more inward, taking those rainy days to do rainy day things indoors. But honestly I began to walk again, despite the rain, with coat and hood and boots, not letting go of my traditions of walking by the sea on an almost daily basis.
   With all of this being said, it seems  nothing is the same as it used to be. Each cycle brings change, but it now feels like change is ever present. People's tempers are short, we long for the Sun.
   Today was a beautiful day and one to treasure. It is mid June, and very few warm days, when I used to muse that May and June were usually the two most beautiful months of the year.
   But I cannot complain because it was warm right into November in the Fall. Perhaps things are changing, even the seasons, and to live a natural life we need to be atuned to these things or at least aware.
   So read on friends for the Summer cycle and what it brings to our lives, and live accordingly!

We ease from one season to the next. Summer is almost here, officially on the Summer solstice on June 21^st. and as the seasons shift, our bodies must adjust once again to change.

Sailing

   The days are longer, and on the solstice we have the “longest” day – that is the longest day of sunlight. Once we pass the solstice, each day sunlight begins to grow shorter by minutes as the Sun continues on its journey.

   The Sun is considered Yang energy in the Chinese tradition. We are active, we do more, and are more outward. Spring was a time of cleansing from Winter and a time of renewal or new birth. In the Summer season things grow and bloom and mature, and then in the Fall we have the harvest.

   In Summer we experience the element of Fire according to the Chinese 5 Element theory, and governs the heart and small intestines. The other systems connected to Summer are the Pericardium which protects the heart and regulates blood flow, heat and nourishment, and the second system is the Triple Warmer which maintains temperature and warmth.

   The heart is a central organ for the whole body, like the Sun is the center of our solar system. The heart controls everything, for without a heart beat we would not live. The heart is also to do with passion.

   The other organ connected with Summer is the small intestines, which digest and absorb nutrients, and separates out toxins.

   In the body, the Triple Warmer has the upper burner, the middle burner and the lower burner. The upper burner is located in the heart and lung area, the middle burner is by the solar plexus and relates to the stomach and spleen, as well as the gall bladder, liver and small intestines, and the lower burner by the area of the navel relates to the large intestines, bladder and kidneys. The Triple Warmer produces heat and energy through respiration, digestion and elimination.

   Going back to Fire, Fire’s circulation and heating are important to balance and function of the entire body. Fire brings vitality. We always feels more energetic in Summer.

   The direction for the Summer is the South.

   The color for Summer and Fire is Red.

   The emotions associated with Summer/Fire are joy and sadness, and excess of either is not healthy.

   The flavor for Summer is bitter, which is believed to strengthen the heart and small intestines.

   The peak time for the Sun is noon. So I try to accomplish things in the morning to catch the energy flow of the Sun at tis strongest. By 4 p.m. our energies start to naturally wane.

   The dominant time for the heart is between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

   The small intestine connects the stomach and large intestine, and nutrients that are absorbed into the bloodstream from the small intestines go to the liver where it can be used or stored. The waste goes to the large intestine. It is wise to avoid inflammatory foods so that the small intestine will work smoothly, avoiding too much meat, dairy, breads and sugar.

  

Fire and Water

Fire and Water

   Although we are dealing mainly with the element of Fire in the Summer, you cannot address Fire without also mentioned Water, for Fire and Water balance each other, and in Chinese Medicine, as in all things, it is the balancing of things that is important.

   If your Water element is weak, Fire can burn out of control which can result in too much heat in the body and systems and organs or create inflammation, and inflammation is often a basis for illness to develop. When Water is too strong it can drown Fire and make one weak physically, and unable to take action.

   Fire is aligned to the heart in the body, while Water is related to the kidneys. Fire relates to the male and sexual energy, and gives life just like the Sun causes growth, while Water is more female and relates to the kidneys and bladder and governs the sexual organs. Water is receptive and also in turn nourishes, feeding growth.

   For Women, if their emotions (governed by Water) are not flowing well or they are too emotional due to stress, the result in the body can be congestion with Fire in the pelvic area and can result in inflammation or infection in the sexual organs.

   For men too much sexual activity without replenishment can cause Water to take over a weakened Fire, leading to congestion and result in back aches, loss of energy and lack of creativity.

   As for diet, with the heat of Fire and Summer, a cool and light diet is best. Fruits and vegetables are Yin or wet and cooling, while Yang foods heat us up like proteins (meat, nuts, seeds, legumes) and grains and dairy.

   No matter what, do not over burden the liver, so avoid fried foods or processed foods, or chemicals, or drugs, alcohol or caffeine in excess. Any organ that is abused during one cycle can show up as illness or disease in the next season.

   To replenish a weak Fire, the taste needed is bitter. So green leafy vegetables, endive, escarole, watercress and lettuce can nourish Fire. Light use of coffee or tea is also bitter, but I prefer not to have those in my own diet because of the caffeine, and also knowing what coffee can do to your body. Excess caffeine can also burn out the adrenals and lead to inflammation. Spices like cayenne, ginger or curry can add Fire to the blood for people with weak Fire.

   Another important aspect for Fire and to keep things balanced and flowing smooth is exercise. Summer time is a perfect time to be outdoors and engage in sports like swimming, biking, hiking, or even just taking a walk.

   Overall, when I think of Summer, I think of cooling and finding balance. Each person has to find what works for them, whether it is habits or diet or exercise. Cool drinks like water with lemon, or just plain water works well in Summer. But remember do not change your diet without consulting your doctor first. These are all just suggestions that correlate to the season of Summer. It is important to find what balances work for you.

Be well,

Maery

Changing of the Seasons - Moving Forward into Spring

Changing of the Seasons - Moving Forward into Spring

   Each year Spring seems to be quite elusive - last year starting very late and this year seeming to start very early. Or were we just experiencing a cycle of Winter Thaw in February? I never would have imagined to be sitting at the ocean beach in East Hampton in Winter with just a small jacket and have the temperatures soar up to almost 60 degrees fahrenheit.

February 2018 - East Hampton Ocean Beach

   But then not long after came a fierce storm that reminded us all that nature knows no boundaries and has her own rules and cycles. And to that end we must surrender and be flexible. It can also be very humbling, to sit in the house while winds close to hurricane force are pounding constantly, rain and flooding of the streets and shorelines. And at the writing of this article, there are still many homes without phones or power, as another storm pounds the area.
   Often I think of storms as part of the cleansing process, and part of the cycle of the seasons shifting. Ever notice how fresh and clean things feel after a rain storm?
   Overall, reflecting back on this Winter, other than an intense cold spell in January, the Winter has been quite mild here, and only a few storms as compared to the previous years. Now that it is March, we are looking forward to the Spring season, when temperatures climb higher, and things soon begin to bloom. And during this time, it is a time of cleansing and shedding the toxins of Winter. So enjoy reading below the health measures to take for the season of Spring.

March is the beginning of many new things as the seasons begin to shift and change, leaving winter slowly behind, and spring fast approaching. Sunlight has already increased, the days are longer, the quality of the sunlight is so brilliant it is inspiring.
   And with all of these changes beginning to onset slowly, our bodies naturally start to cleanse and shed the toxins gathered in winter. Although March 21st marks

The First Crocus of Spring

the official beginning of spring, there seems to be signs of spring already. For the first time in a long time the birds were out and singing. The  neighborhood hawk returned, seeking food no doubt. There is a warmth in the air. Things are beginning to grow and the grass is turning green, sun light is pervasive.
   So how to best facilitate the process?
   Cleansing is one of the most important aspects of spring, but first is to look at the approach to the season of spring through Chinese medicine. Spring is represented by the element of wood and governs the body organs of the liver and gall bladder. Wood governs trees, plants, humans, anything that is living and grows. Trees have roots, a trunk and limbs, humans have the spine, and limbs and joints.
   People with a severe wood imbalance may have spinal issues, rigidness in their bodies and personalities, arthritis flare ups, joint pain, bone issues.
   The color for spring is green. Pale green is new growth, while dark green is old growth. You can see this clearly in ivy, for the new shoots are green and the old growth is dark green.
   If a person strongly craves or dislikes green intensely it may suggest an imbalance in wood.
   But the color green can also be very healing. Spring represents new life and birth. Most animals have their young in the spring. In spring we have new ideas, inspirations, fresh starts and new beginnings. Spring always inspires and moves us into action.

The Rabbit Has Returned for Spring!

   The element of wood also gives us clarity and the ability to focus and plan things. If you cannot seem to ever manifest or plan things you could have weak wood element. If you overcompensate and try to control everyone and everything around you, you could have excessive wood energy.
   The direction for spring is the East, for the sun rises in the east. Wood clearly governs the morning hours of the day. Do you ever notice how fresh each new day seems to be?

Trees represent the element of Wood

   The climate that goes with spring is the wind. March, at least here, is a very windy month as things begin to transition from winter to spring, and wind has a certain quality of cleansing to it. Nothing remains stagnant when there is wind, and things can be blown away. Wind can nourish wood, but too much wind is not good either. As an example of too much wind, it can lower one's resistance in general, spark up your allergies, make you feel imbalanced, stir up sinus issues, skin issues, and watery or red, irritated eyes, nose and throat.
   The eyes in general are the sense organ for the liver, and the sense associated with wood is sight. What do you see or perceive? Fluids like tears go with wood as well, and tears help us to shed the past. 
   The taste for wood is sour. Some sour tasting foods will nourish the liver. If you crave sour or vinegar intensely or dislike sour flavors intensely it might be a sign of wood imbalance. Other than vinegar, drinking lemon water goes with wood, and also cleanses the liver.
   The emotion associated with wood is that of anger, and shouting. Anger injures both the liver and gall bladder. Sometimes when people hold in anger or suppress it in any way it builds up toxins.
   The tissue associated with wood is muscles, ligaments and tendons. This makes me think of strength, making and keeping muscles strong, as well as being flexible. You may notice towards the end of winter muscles may feel somewhat weak, but then as spring progresses you may start to feel stronger.
   The element of Wood can sometimes be controlling and inflexible. There was a family who called me in for a consultation for their new home, and the entire interior was all heavy wood. My recommendation for that home was to add some of the color white to introduce some of the element of Metal to tone down the Wood influence. There was just too much wood. Too much wood can make a person dull, rigid, unexpressive or a tyrant.
   The organ that goes with Wood is the liver. The liver processes out toxins. Liver also has the word "live" inside it. Everything we eat, drink or take including vitamins or medications much be processed through the liver. We can become dull or lethargic if our liver is toxic and unable to process out all the toxins. The first line of toxicity is the kidneys. Once the kidneys become toxic, then the liver also becomes clogged and toxic, so the toxins stay in the body. So that is why we cleanse in the spring, to rid the body of toxins accumulated during the winter months.
   The liver is also a storehouse for nutrients, so it is much more than just processing out toxins. If your liver is toxic, most likely you will not get as much nutrition as you need.  The liver produces vile to help in digestion and then stores the bile in the gall bladder, which is later used in the intestines to break down fats. Too much fat in a diet could over burden the gall bladder. The liver also metabolizes carbohydrates, fats and protein, and also plays a role in blood sugar metabolism, and it also forms gamma globulin and plasma proteins for the immune system. It also makes agents for clotting blood, and both forms and stores vitamins A, D and B, as well as minerals like copper, zinc and iron.
   So things that affect the liver negatively are overeating, too much alcohol or drugs, too many chemicals in food or water, fried foods and heavy meats. Refined sugar and white flour is also stressful for the digestive system. Including fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains (in moderation), seeds, nuts and beans is more nutritious and supportive to our organs.
   In Chinese medicine, a clogged or malfunctioning gall bladder can result in physical and mental congestion in the shoulders and head, as well as the hips and thighs, and is often a cause for headaches.

Cleansing
   There is no set rule for cleansing, for each person has individual needs, and people should not cleanse without letting their healthcare professional know.
   So for some people it means juicing for a few days and fasting in between, and there are many different cleanses available online or in books. 
   It can be as simple as drinking more water, adding more fruits and vegetables and greens to your diet as you see fit.
   Some people use herbs to detox, but again, your doctor should know about anything that you attempt. You can drink herbs in the form of teas if you wish.

   So good luck with whatever you do to celebrate spring, for a healthier, happy you!

Maery

Clouds return for yet another storm.....

The Light Returns - Slowly but Surely

The Fragments of Light as the Days grow longer

   It may not be Spring - no, far from it! But a few weeks ago, while hibernating in my cozy little house, I noticed at 5 pm and looking at the western sky from the small expanse of the window, that it was not completely dark yet. Yes, sunset has been gradually a minute or so later every few days, assurance that the Sun is making its journey back from the darkness of Winter.

The Last Leaf of Autumn poises on the edge of the Waterfall

   Yes Winter is a time of inward reflection, and a necessary cycle, but always hopeful when I know the days are getting longer. We all need sunlight, but for myself I am a person who enjoys the great outdoors and sunshine in the Spring, Summer and Fall. Yes I did go on my yearly hiking pilgrimage of sorts to the local mountains, ah yes, actually the foothills of higher mountains further north, but still it is the thought and sentiment that counts. It was above freezing, about 35 degrees fahrenheit, but a bit damp but able to walk and sit near my favorite waterfall. A year without ice, whereas many years the woods and trails and streams and waterfalls are completely frozen, with its own unique beauty. I never seem to tire of looking at the different landscapes, because for every visit, every day, it all seems to be a different perception of the same view.
   And we were spoiled this Fall, but warm temperatures. Could it be a warm winter? I had hoped. Even though the Farmer's Almanac warned of a cold winter, I still foolishly hope for a mild Winter, mainly because I have to travel in the cold and snow during work.
   As late as November I was at the ocean beaches, taking long walks and hikes, with just a long sleeve shirt or small jacket - unheard of at that time of year - where the Fall winds can be especially harsh.
   Then came the early deep freeze, suddenly, with below zero temperatures. A shock for sure. Lasting longer than usual. Phone calls and stories came about frozen pipes. One Friday night the power suddenly went out. No heat or electricity and it was 15 degrees. The whole neighborhood was cloaked in darkness, and flashlights and candles could be seen in the windows. It was so cold something snapped in the wires or transformers. Eventually the power came back on but it was a reminder that Winter was indeed here.
   Finally yesterday we had a mild day of 50 degrees, which felt like Spring. Although it had only been about a month, walking on the boardwalk by the water felt like it had been an eternity. Was it still the same sky, the water, the distant shore of Connecticut, the same marsh in the nature preserve? Different somehow, for time and nature always move on in spite of us and in spite of or because of the seasons and time.

Icy Shores

   The ice on the bay of course still sits on top of the water, the larger chunks seeming to cling to the shore. Every day people come to look at the icy shore and take pictures. It certainly is very still and quiet, the white of ice and snow so bright to our eyes that have become accustomed to muted light and darker nights.
   But soon it will be Spring, my favorite time of the year. Until then I take my walks when I can and watch the sunsets, year after year, a ceremony or celebration of sorts for the glory of nature. That my friends, is natural living.

Maery