It took a while this year, but the typical autumn weather has now really made its appearance in the Netherlands. Dark clouds, downpours and a strong chilly wind alternate with a cautious sun. The day is getting shorter and the night is getting longer. Trees lose the color of the fresh green leaves and change into the beautiful typical autumn colors and will release more and more leaves in the coming weeks. Mushrooms flourish in the forests and on dead trees. Nature retreats into the earth and gets ready to get through the winter period.
Humans and animals in autumn.
What does this mean for us humans and our animals…? We humans will have to participate in our cultural heritage. Soon winter time will come again so that it will remain just a little lighter when we come back from work or school, but actually, just like nature, we should withdraw a little more. Our bodies need more sleep and the warmth and security of a home. We also see this reflected in our children who have more trouble waking up for a school day and are clearly more tired than during the long summer days. Half classes are sick with the flu and it’s a good thing that the autumn holidays actually come so early after the summer holidays. Just acclimatization…
If we look at our animals, the same applies. We see it very nicely in cats that now come inside at night and are often looking for a safe, sheltered and warm place during the day. They won’t want to be outside 24/7 anymore. Dogs also sleep in more often and will stay down more often if we are ready too early with the leash for our routine walk.
And well, what to do with it. Should they follow us in our tight schedule, or do we let them keep to themselves?
Chinese as a matter of fact.
From Chinese medicine, autumn is a season that is linked to the metal phase. The element Metal is again linked to the Long. This is an organ that makes us immune and gives us control over the liver. It’s not surprising that we all get flu-like in the fall and that we all suffer a bit from the emotions of autumn. We humans are a bit more irritated, more stressed and the dogs are also a bit more barky, have a shorter fuse or are a bit stiffer due to osteoarthritis which is more noticeable at this time of year than in the heat of summer. In case of osteoarthritis complaints, you can support your pet well with, among other things, the supplement PEA and Boswellia.
The earth’s microbiome is now fed by all the falling leaves and rotting branches, with the mycelium of mushrooms connecting everything. As far as I’m concerned, mushrooms are the symbol of grounding and resistance. What humans and animals need, especially in autumn.
So, take a step back, go out into the beautiful nature, feel the power of the earth beneath you. Adapt your diet to the season and make a pot of pumpkin soup or a casserole with sweet potato, parsnip, carrot and Jerusalem artichoke. Powerful, grounding vegetables that you can also give to your dog or cat in addition to the meat. Warming animal species are now lamb, goat meat and game species, which serves as a nice base.
Finally
The lung energy has to protect the body from the elements that are now a bit more extreme. The lung is supposed to protect us from the heat and emotions of the liver; itching, epilepsy, stress, anger, aggression. So if your dog doesn’t want to go outside in stormy weather…. If he is a bit irritated or gets flu-like symptoms. Know that it’s normal and don’t force things, but make sure you’re going to support this. For example, you can support NGD Care’s products with vitamin C, medicinal mushrooms or Ashwaganda. If you would like help with this or if you are unsure which supplement is best for you, our practice can guide you well in this. You can make an appointment here.