Words Katie Musicco, Acupuncturist
Peninsula Naturopathic Clinic
There’s something magical about November on the West Coast – that misty salt air, the scent of cedar after rain, and the cozy permission to pull on your softest sweater and slow down. But between the endless drizzle, darker mornings, and that “is it 4 p.m. or midnight?” feeling, our energy starts to dip. I don’t know about you, but this time of year used to have me running on coffee and sheer determination. My skin would dull, my sleep would slip, and my motivation – well, it often stayed under the covers.
That was before I learned that in Chinese Medicine (CM), November isn’t a season to fight – it’s one to flow with. Nature turns inward, conserving energy, and our bodies are meant to do the same. Instead of pushing harder, Chinese medicine invites us to listen, nourish and restore – to create balance from the inside out. Here are five ways to stay healthy and grounded this November, the Chinese Medicine way.
Rest is Medicine
In Chinese Medicine, fall transitions into winter are governed by the Kidney system – your deep energy reserves. Think of it as your body’s internal battery. This is the time to slow down and protect your energy. Go to bed earlier, spend evenings unplugged, and replace high-intensity workouts with gentler movement like yin yoga or walking in the rain. Rest isn’t lazy – it’s deeply productive.
Eat to Warm & Nourish Yin
November calls for comfort foods that build warmth and moisture in the body. Think soups, stews, roasted root veggies, and congee. Chinese Medicine loves cooked, easy-to-digest meals in cooler months. Avoid too many raw salads or cold smoothies – they can dampen digestion. Add ginger, cinnamon and miso to keep your inner fire glowing.
Support Your Lungs & Immune System
The lung system is especially vulnerable in fall – that’s why we catch more colds and coughs. Support your lungs by breathing deeply, getting fresh (even misty) air, and practising gratitude – yes, emotional well-being affects lung qi too! Foods like pears, daikon and white mushrooms help nourish the lungs and keep mucus at bay.
Embrace Light & Movement
We all feel the darker days, but Chinese Medicine reminds us: stagnation is the enemy of vitality. Keep your Qi moving! Even a short morning walk, stretching at your desk, or standing by the window to soak up daylight helps prevent that heavy, low-energy feeling. Try a gentle acupuncture session to boost circulation and mood.
Tend to Your Emotional Health
As nature turns inward, so do we. It’s normal to feel reflective – even emotional – in November. Chinese medicine sees emotions as energy that moves through the body. If you’re feeling stuck or low, acupuncture can help regulate your nervous system and restore emotional balance. Think of it as a seasonal reset for body and mind.
This season, instead of fighting the slower rhythm, honour it. Light the candles, make the soup, breathe deeply, and let your body settle into the wisdom of the season. If your body’s been whispering for balance – for deeper rest, smoother digestion, or calmer moods – it might be time to listen.
www.katiemusicco.com
