The Colorado high country is known for panoramic views and stunning fall colors. In Summit County, we become enveloped with the golden glow of changing Aspens. The crisp fall air brings a new chill to the air and something about bundling up and getting outside is nourishing to the soul.
Being a Colorado native, I thrive on the 300 days of sunshine. The sun gives me the energy to get out early every morning for hikes and trail runs, and if I’m lucky, fly fishing with my favorite ladies. I love the summer months, but this time of year grants me permission to slow down and unwind. We tend to fill our summer days from sun up to sundown, enjoying every ounce of Vitamin D we can absorb. That being said, there are moments when I have to remind myself to slowdown; to bathe in the stillness.
We’ve all heard the term “spring cleaning.” This can be taken from the view of cleaning out old items we’ve acquired over the past few months; purging the old, making space for what is fresh and new. We can also view this from an internal sense. Cleansing the boding of the stale energy and making room for fresh prana. Why don’t we have a “fall cleaning”? Observing nature and the environment we live in, nature is the guru fall cleansing. The Aspens drop their tired old leaves, we experience more rainy days washing away the dust and eventually we are draped in a layer of freshly fallen snow.
During the fall we turn our focus to the lungs and large intestine. Both organs are linked to aliments that become more prevalent in the autumn months. We experience breathing troubles such as asthma and common skin issues like eczema. Especially during the first few weeks of temperature shifting – avoid sugars, flour and dairy. And often most difficult for us to avoid once all of the pumpkin/spice/nog libations arrive: alcohol. We want to avoid anything that will create excess mucus, causing our boding to promote the growth and longevity of illness. This time of year there are so many vibrantly colored veggies offered at the final days of the farmers market. Beets, Rhubarb, apples, kale, citrus and radish are all making their last appearance. Keep an out for stone fruits such as peaches, nectarines and apricots. Paired with your leafy greens (kale, spinach, Swiss chard, bok choy…) you have a Vitamin C powerhouse! Not mention all that produce intermingled will aid in your body’s natural detoxification efforts!
Try this tasty recipe to assist your body in a smooth seasonal transition. Not to mention the flavor combo will tantalize your taste buds.
DETOX & Nourish Juice Blend:
Ingredients:
1 medium beet
1 large apple
3 radishes
1 cup fresh kale or spinach leaves (raw kale can be difficult to digest for some folks)
½ of a fresh lemon (juice and a bit of zest)
Method:
Place all ingredients in the blender and process. Enjoy within 72 hours!
Melany has been practicing yoga for the past 13 years in Colorado and abroad. She earned her 200 RYT through the Bindu Yoga School in Bali, Indonesia. Her goal is to have yoga accessible to all ages and abilities.
