A Seasonal Guide to Natural Health

Spring:

This is a time to cleanse and rejuvenate our bodies. The fresh green shoots and leaves emerge in perfect time to enliven and restore playfulness and renewed activity. The young leaves of Nettle, Chickweed, Dandelion and Cleavers provide a wealth of nutrients and deeply cleanse the entire body right down to the cellular level. The lymphatic and urinary systems are also powerfully stimulated by these herbs. The high chlorophyll content helps feed and strengthen the blood also in preparation for the action packed summer months.

Summer:

This is a time to feast and indulge in nature – to bathe in the sun, breathe in the breezes and paddle in dappled waters. Food emphasis is on fresh raw salads and leaves with juicy ripe vine fruits and vegetables. Include flowers such as Violets, Borrage, Nasturtiun, Lavender and Rose in salads for taste and perfume. Drink plenty of fresh spring water to replace lost fluids. Be conscious when tasting the full range of summertime of how abundant nature is. Echo this abundance and achievement in your daily activities.

Autumn:

This is a time of continuous harvesting and storing in preparation for winter. Nuts and seeds are packed with oils and fatty acids whilst fruits and berries are bursting with vitamins and immune enhancing ingredients. Rosehips, Blackberries, Red/Blackcurrants and Apples can be preserved to last into the winter months. The tonic effects of medicinal mushrooms such as Reishi or Shitake can be used for their long lasting immuno-protective properties.

Winter:

This is a time to reap the rewards of the previous seasons good work and to continue to protect against the effects of cold and damp weather. Include more roots in your diet such as Carrots, Turnips and Parsnips. Medicinal roots such as Dandelion, Burdock, Siberian Ginseng and Liquorice help to maintain your immune system and provide steady support for the emotions. Keep the circulation moving with Ginger, Cayenne and Garlic. Look within to sum up the achievements and failures of the last year and plan and weave for the next.