September...Spring and living according to the Seasons
The Yellow Emperor, Huang Di, on his discourse on the ‘Art of Life Through the Four Seasons’ talks about the season of Spring…
The three months of Spring are about revitalization in nature. A time of birth...when heaven and earth are reborn. During Spring it is advisable to retire early and equally to arise early. Go for an early morning walk to absorb the the fresh and invigorating energy. This is the season during which the universal energy begins anew and rejuvenates. We should attempt to correspond to this energy directly by being open, receptive and unsuppressed. Physically, mentally and emotionally.
Physically, we can begin exercising more frequently again. We should wear loose-fitting and comfortable clothing, so that our bodies can breathe and we can rid ourselves of toxins through the pores. Tight fitting exercise wear may cause toxins to be re-absorbed. It is a time for stretching and lengthening...to loosen up both the tendons and muscles.
Emotionally, it is a time to develop equanimity. Spring is the season related to the liver. Indulgence in anger, frustration, depression, sadness or any excess of emotion injures the liver and the liver qi. Violating the natural order of Spring can cause cold disease, illness inflicted by atmospheric cold, during the course of the next season
This excerpt dates back to the third millenium BC. In ancient China people lived with a greater knowledge of and connection to the natural world. Life was simpler and less filled with conflict or separation from nature and each other. In modern times our lives are filled to the brim with things, stuff, technology and being busy. As we move forward, more and more people are becoming interested in the ancient ways and finding a sense of balance in our very busy lives. Living simply and connecting to nature, the seasons and each other.
Quotations from the The Neijing Suwen, translated by Maoshing Ni, PH.D
