On October 8th, the first day after the National Day holiday, we welcome the Cold Dew solar term.

 

"During the September festival, the dew becomes cold and begins to condense." Cold Dew is the seventeenth of the twenty-four solar terms. In ancient times, this solar term was regarded as a turning point in weather, with the character "cold" indicating a transition from cool to cold temperatures.

 

September: Eating Crabs and Appreciating Chrysanthemums

 

The ninth month of the lunar calendar, also known as the Chrysanthemum Month, marks the migration of wild geese to the south and the gradual blooming of chrysanthemums, making it an ideal time for chrysanthemum appreciation.

 

September and October is also the season for enjoying crabs, as they are rich in roe and have plump meat. Traditionally, people not only steam hairy crabs but also enjoy them marinated in rice wine, which offers a unique flavor.

 

Dietary Tips for Cold Dew: Increasing Sourness to Prevent Dryness

 

As the Cold Dew season brings cooler weather, nature enters a transitional phase of "yang diminishing and yin increasing." Similarly, the body's organs align with these natural changes, and autumn diets should adhere to the principle of "nurturing and preserving."

 

1. Moisturize Lung Qi  

In autumn, it is essential to nourish the lungs and prevent dryness. The lungs thrive on moisture, and dry climates can easily lead to "lung heat." "Moisture should counter dryness," so it is advisable to consume foods that nourish yin and moisturize the lungs during late autumn, such as lotus seeds, lilies, white fungus, and pumpkins.

 

2. Conserve Lung Qi  

In autumn wellness, the focus should be on "conserving" rather than "scattering." Consuming sour foods helps to consolidate lung qi, so incorporating some sour fruits and vegetables is beneficial. Oranges, lemons, pomegranates, tomatoes, black plums, and grapes not only protect the lungs but also enhance liver function.

 

Nourishing during Cold Dew: Eat These 3 Foods

 

1. Sesame: Nourish Yin and Moisten the Lungs

 

There is a long-standing custom of "eating sesame during Cold Dew." Traditional Chinese medicine believes that sesame can strengthen the body, nourish yin, moisten the lungs, supplement the liver and kidneys, and increase bodily fluids. For those with a cough, consuming sesame paste can soothe the respiratory tract, reduce phlegm, and promote smoother breathing. Additionally, sesame cakes, sesame pancakes, sesame sauce, and sesame brittle are all excellent choices.

 

2.  Stir-Fried Yam and Black Fungus: Protect the Stomach

 

During Cold Dew, the body's metabolism accelerates, leading to increased waste production, making detoxification important. Black fungus has strong adsorption properties and effectively cleanses the gastrointestinal tract, while yam strengthens the spleen and stomach, alleviating indigestion. Stir-fried yam with black fungus can help maintain gastrointestinal health during this season.

 

3. Reishi: Enhance Immunity

  

 

Reishi has neutral properties, known for its effects of "nourishing liver qi," "calming the spirit," and strengthening immunity. With a high incidence of influenza in autumn and winter, regular consumption of reishi can enhance the body's immune response, helping achieve a balanced state where "evil cannot invade."  

 

Reishi can be brewed as a tea, and its spores and oil are also beneficial for the body when consumed directly.

 

Preserving Health during Cold Dew: Protect These 4 Body Parts

 

During the Cold Dew season, respiratory and digestive system illnesses are common. It is essential to keep warm and moisturized, especially protecting these four parts of the body from the cold:

 

1. Feet Should Not Be Cold  

There is an old saying: "In White Dew, keep your body covered; in Cold Dew, keep your feet covered." This means that after Cold Dew, the weather transitions from cool to cold, and since the feet are considered the body's second heart, exposure to cold can easily lead to illness.

 

2. Head Should Not Be Cold  

The head is where all yang energies converge. If not properly protected, yang energy may be lost, and exposure to cold in the head and neck can lead to respiratory symptoms, while constriction of neck blood vessels can hinder blood supply to the brain.

 

3. Abdomen Should Not Be Cold  

Exposure to cold can cause stagnation of qi and blood in the abdominal meridians, negatively affecting organ function. For instance, individuals with a history of stomach issues may experience pain in cold weather, and women may suffer from menstrual cramps due to cold exposure.

 

4. Joints Should Not Be Cold  

Changes in weather and dampness can exacerbate joint pain, such as in arthritis. When temperatures drop, the amount of mucin in the synovia increases, resulting in higher viscosity of the synovia, which can hinder joint mobility.

 

 

As fallen leaves blanket the path and the autumn winds blow, consider brewing a cup of reishi tea. The fragrant aroma nourishes both body and mind while fostering a greater appreciation for life.