2 Minute Read
By Jordan Douglas, HHC
Here in Virginia, we’re still relishing in the short, often overlooked season of early autumn. Students have returned to school, the heat is becoming less and less sweltering, the days are becoming shorter. There is a coolness in the evening air and the leaves are just beginning to turn. This is the season of transformation and of reconnecting to our center. We’re moving from the outward celebration and revelry of summer to the quiet inner contemplation and stillness that winter will bring.
This is the ideal season to begin reconnecting to yourself and nourishing your body.
During this season, a focus on digestion is key. Imbalance can manifest as sluggishness, low energy, bloating and irregularity. Digestive bitters can be an excellent tool here. These combinations of bitter herbs stimulate digestion starting in the mouth, ensuring optimal break down, absorption and assimilation of nutrients. Taking bitters before meals can support gas and bloating, regularity and sugar cravings.
Early autumn is a prime season for local produce, as we can enjoy some of the best that both summer and fall have to offer. Summer squash and stone fruits are still available. Greens like kale, chard, cabbage and arugula are in abundance. Apples and root vegetables are coming into season. Choosing local produce during the time is a wonderful way to support us in this season of transformation. Because the quality of the food is so vibrant, we can prepare simple, conscious meals that are easily digested and assimilated.
As we’re transitioning from summer to fall, we’re also looking ahead and beginning to prepare for winter. Early autumn is also a time to begin incorporating more grounding herbs, especially roots and fruits. Cinnamon offers a slightly sweet warmth to food and drink. Elderberry provides (delicious!) immune support for the whole family. Astragalus and reishi are both excellent options for maintaining vitality and strong immunity as we prepare for winter. Simplicity, gratitude and transformation are essential themes of the season; carry them with you in all the ways you nourish yourself.
