Autumn is a time for Reflection
Hello !
Today marks the last day of summer. Tomorrow is the autumn equinox (in the northern hemisphere, spring equinox if you are south of the equator). That means that tomorrow, we will have equal amount of day light to darkness. For many cultures around the world, this time is especially important celebrating the change of seasons to the colder months ahead.
But what does this mean for our bodies? Well for one, the shorter days and longer nights ahead can begin to affect our mood and energy. Some people experience mood changes with lack of light. The colder weather also makes us susceptible to “external pathogens” such as bacterias and viruses that can make us ill. In
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the autumn is represented by the lung organs which in TCM is not only responsible for respiration but also our immune system and even the emotions of grief and sadness. This is why the two symptoms I listed above, mood changes and the susceptibility of the immune system to infections is prevalent during this time.
The good news is that the “lungs” in TCM also represents resilience. The lungs represent the metal element which is very malleable and can adapt to the different pressures that are applied to it. And given the right tools and skills, it can be refined to become something beautiful, like a piece of jewelry.
Having said that, this is why it is during this time that we need to focus on supporting our bodies and our minds to develop resilience.
As a Naturopathic Doctor, I view health in the context of the body, mind and spirit being interconnected. Those aspects of health are intertwined and cannot be separated. In doing so, the approach to healing is holistic. When you act on one, it also affects the other.
Are you curious about how you can support your immune system and your emotional health during this time?
If so consider scheduling a free 15 minute consult in the link below. I’d be happy to develop an individualized strategy tailored to your specific needs.
P.S If you found this email helpful, do share it with a friend whom you think will benefit from it. 😊
In our next newsletter, next month we will dive in how your gut microbiome affects your immune system.
P.P.S And lastly, here is a simple recipe to help you boost your immune system for the autumn
In good health,
Dr. Hiraya, ND (she/her)
🍁 Change of Season Soup
(Simple Immune-Boosting Recipe)
Serves: 4–6Prep Time: 10 minCook Time: 2 hours
🧄 Ingredients:
10g Astragalus root (immune booster)
10g Codonopsis root (energy and lung support)
10g Chinese yam (digestive and respiratory support)
10g Goji berries (antioxidants and liver support)
5 Jujube dates (blood-nourishing and calming)
1 small piece Reishi mushroom (adaptogen and immune modulator)
8 cups water
Optional: 1–2 cups bone broth or vegetable broth for extra flavor
Salt and pepper to taste
🍲 Instructions:
Rinse all herbs gently under cool water.
In a large pot, combine herbs and water (plus broth if using).
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 hours.
Strain out herbs and discard them.
Season the broth with salt and pepper. You can sip it as-is or use it as a base for a veggie or noodle soup.
🌿 Optional Add-ins:
Sliced carrots, mushrooms, or bok choy
Cooked rice or noodles
Shredded chicken or tofu
This soup is like a warm hug for your immune system—gentle, grounding, and deeply restorative. It’s especially great for teachers, parents, or anyone who tends to catch colds during seasonal transitions.