Solar Terms Wellness: Cold Dew

With the arrival of Cold Dew (Hanlu) around October 8 or 9, the weather shifts from cool to cold. As the growing chill causes vegetation to wither, the body's yang energy gradually retreats while yin essence is stored. Therefore, the key to autumn wellness is to nourish and preserve yin essence.

The seasonal dryness can easily affect the lungs and deplete the body's yin fluids, leading to a dry throat, dry nose, and dry skin. As the ancient saying goes, "To counter autumn dryness, eat sesame." Increase your intake of moistening foods such as sesame, glutinous rice, honey, and dairy products. Include protein-rich foods such as chicken, duck, beef, pork liver, fish, and shrimp to help strengthen the body. Reduce spicy foods to avoid further depleting yin fluids.

Mental well-being is equally important. Shorter days and falling leaves can evoke feelings of melancholy. It is essential to maintain a positive outlook and find healthy ways to release pent-up emotions. An optimistic and open-minded attitude is an important part of maintaining overall health.

Adjusting your daily routine is also important. The ancient medical classic Suwen (Plain Questions) advises, "Retire early and rise early, keeping pace with the rooster." Going to bed early helps preserve yin essence, while rising early allows yang qi to expand smoothly.

After the Double Ninth Festival, yang energy continues to subside and the body's physiological functions become more settled. As the saying goes, "Autumn melons upset the stomach." In the cooler weather, eating excessive amounts of cooling fruits and melons may weaken the stomach's yang energy. People with a cold constitution should choose fruits that are considered warming in traditional Chinese medicine. Persimmons, which are in season, help clear heat and moisten the lungs, but it is best to limit consumption to no more than one per day.