Moderation is the Key
Being moderate in the autumn cannot be overemphasized. Never stuff yourself with anything, whether food, work, exercise, or relationships. Even if something is a staple, more than enough is a bad thing.
That also include sleep. You should adjust your sleep-wake cycle to conform with the changes. Early to bed and early to rise will nourish your yin energy and help with the settling down of qi. It also promotes the circulation of lung qi, storage of yin essence, and the gathering in of qi.
Early to bed early to rise
Take in Fresh Air
When you wake early, try to go outside for a walk or exercise in the park. The autumn wind gently blows, and the air tends to be fresh. Fresh air clears the inhibitory state of the brain after sleeping, and early exercise will create increase your energy for the day.
Take an early walk outside in the autumn
Dress in Layers
Don’t overdress in the fall. The Chinese phrase has many translations, but the recommendation is to “Muffle the body in the spring and freeze the body in autumn.” The idea is to allow your body to strengthen and build its ability to tolerate the cold of winter. The right level of chill will help your body increase its circulation, which will keep you warm.
Dress in layers. You should never feel too chilled. You want just enough of a sense of feeling cold to allow your body to warm you.
Additionally, if you bundled up too much, you may sweat which consumes yin fluids. Remember, the task is to nourish and store yin fluids during autumn and winter. Starting the process in the autumn will keep your body moist and nourished.
