Embracing Transitions
Many of you have known me for years and have probably heard me wax poetic about transitional times and the beauty of holding multiple feelings, ideas, or experiences at once. We live in a culture where we're often pushed to show only one facet of ourselves—shiny, perfect, and happy—but the reality is that the human experience is as multi-dimensional as the world around us.
Transition is where we find ourselves balancing—one foot on a platform we're familiar with, the other reaching into the unknown, preparing to step forward. I find such beauty in this process, especially in the letting go it requires. Even as I write this, we’re experiencing what’s (hopefully!) the last 98-degree day of summer. Walking back from dropping Greyson at preschool this morning, I noticed how nature around me is navigating this change too. The bees are still busy gathering nectar, and summer’s final flowers are bursting in color, preparing to turn into seeds. The plants are letting go of what they no longer need, holding on only to what will help them survive the winter.
In both Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Western Holistic Medicine, we’re encouraged to take cues from nature. As we savor these last warm days, it’s time to ask ourselves: What are we holding onto that no longer serves us? What can we release to move more freely into the next phase of life?
Nothing has taught me this delicate balance of release and forward movement quite like motherhood. Just as I settle into one phase with Greyson, he’s already transitioning into the next. Early this month, he started preschool—a milestone we've all been excited about. I had been looking forward to the extra time at home, time for myself, but on that first day, as I said goodbye, I found tears running down my face. Greyson, on the other hand, ran full speed ahead without looking back, eager for new friends and experiences. Watching him embrace this new chapter with an open heart makes me so proud. My strong-willed Capricorn babe, always charging ahead with determination.
Cupping is one of many additions we offer to your treatment at no extra cost. Cupping can help regulate the flow of Qi, reduce inflammation, and support immune function.
Other options include hot towels, aromatherapy, a heated table, side-lying positioning, and a variety of modalities that each therapist specializes in to create an experience tailored specifically to your needs.
How Can Bodywork Support You During These Transitional Seasons?
Massage, especially during seasonal shifts, can help your body both absorb what it needs and release what it doesn’t. Increased circulation, deeper breathing, and improved digestion are just a few ways massage helps your body find balance. It supports your nervous system, creating space for your energetic body to release whatever no longer serves you. I especially feel a consistent practice of regularly receiving bodywork is a great way to stay grounded during transitional times.
In TCM, late summer and early autumn are ruled by the Earth element, governed by the Spleen (yin) and Stomach (yang) meridians. These organs energetically oversee digestion, transforming food into the nourishment we need. During this time, it's especially important to eat grounding, nourishing foods—think warming spices like cinnamon, ginger, and turmeric, alongside hearty fall foods like sweet potatoes, pumpkin, and whole grains.
At Lavender Moon Wellness, we're embracing this seasonal shift too. I’m excited to share that we just brought in a beautiful Chai Masala blend from Diaspora Co., perfect for cozying up with as the weather cools. Stay tuned for fresh herbal tea blends and candles being poured later this month as well.
Nourishment as Self-Care
In TCM, the Earth element is seen as a provider, the fertile ground where all things grow. It’s the foundation upon which we nourish ourselves, both physically and spiritually. If the Earth element is out of balance, we may feel ungrounded, fatigued, or disconnected from our center. Similarly, our ability to care for ourselves can become imbalanced.
At Lavender Moon Wellness, we aim to support your Earth element during this season, and bring you back to center. Through massage, herbal consultations, and our curated apothecary offerings, we’re here to help you nourish your body and soul during this season of transition.
As we move through autumn, take a moment to reflect: What are you holding onto, and what can you release to make space for new growth? Let us support you in finding that balance, so you can step into this next season feeling grounded and nourished.
Self-Care as Ritual
Ritual doesn’t need to be complicated. It can be as simple as this daily tonifying herbal tea recipe that is popular with TCM herbalists.
Qi Nourishing Tea Recipe
Ingredients:
2-3 jujubes (Chinese red dates), halved (these can be found online or at an Asian grocer)
1-2” knob of ginger, sliced
1-2 Tbsp goji berries
Note: Omit goji if taking blood thinners or drugs to lower A1C as it may interact with these.
Instructions:
Add 1-1 ½ quarts of water to a saucepan.
Add the herbs to the water.
Bring to a boil and simmer for 10-20 minutes, depending on your preferred strength (longer simmering increases the warming action of ginger).
TCM HERBAL BENEFITS
Jujube (Chinese Red Dates): In TCM, jujube is known to tonify the Qi and blood, making it a perfect herb for those needing more energy and vitality. It is also calming to the spirit (Shen) and is often used to support digestion, reduce stress, and promote restful sleep.
Goji Berries: Goji nourishes and builds both the Yin and Blood, which can help support the body in producing and maintaining balanced Qi. It’s known for its rejuvenating properties, helping to improve overall vitality and longevity. Goji is also great for the eyes and liver, supporting the body’s natural detox processes.
Ginger: In TCM, ginger is often used to warm the digestive system (the Spleen and Stomach meridians). This makes it excellent for improving digestion, boosting immunity, and dispelling cold from the body. Its warming nature strengthens Qi by encouraging proper movement and flow of energy throughout the body, particularly in colder months.
This recipe is perfect for those transitioning into cooler seasons, providing warmth, nourishment, and support for the body’s Qi. This tea is intended to be consumed regularly as a tonic, and is generally safe for daily consumption. As with any herbal formulas, I encourage you to listen to the needs of your body and follow your intuition. If you are concerned about interactions, reach out to your healthcare provider.
