Here at EPIC, we like to live wild and free—which usually means using Nature as our guide rather than as something we feel the need to dominate. So, when amidst seasonal transitions, we use natural clues and tools to support our bodies through the changes rather than trying to fight them.
This Saturday, September 22 is the autumnal equinox—the first day of fall here in the Northern Hemisphere. On this day, the sun rises in due east and sets in due west. Day and night are about equal. It signifies the start of a progression towards shorter days, cooler temperatures, and colorful foliage. We are starting to feel that subtle briskness in the air, and we might feel inclined to crawl into bed a little earlier. This is the season of letting go that which no longer serves us. We might find ourselves getting rid of old clothes we no longer wear or shedding habitual patterns that are inhibiting our growth.
Weather changes, especially to the cooler, windy weather of the fall, are often associated with sickness. However, harmonizing our habits with the seasonal transition can support immunity and overall energy. As always, Nature provides us with many tools to do so. For example, fall brings produce like root vegetables, pears and apples, garlic and onions, and pungent spices—all of which can be eaten regularly during this time to support our bodies.
Also, as temperatures drop, it’s wise to start eating more warm foods. Lots of cold, raw foods during the cooler seasons can lead to mucus build-up and poor digestion. Make sure to incorporate warm, seasonal foods into your daily meals.
The transition from summer to fall is a time of harvest—an opportunity to reap what we have sown. Our ancestors used this time to give thanks for the abundance from the past year and began to gather and prepare for the darker, cooler months ahead. Take some time to practice gratitude and set intentions for the upcoming season.
While we recommend setting some time to reflect this weekend—in the spirit of balance—it’s also a great time to get together with family and friends to celebrate the equinox. Incorporate warmer, seasonal foods that will nourish and fortify the body. Bone broth is great inclusion during this time as a medicinal sipping broth and recipe ingredient. Here is one of our favorite fall recipes that incorporates fall flavors and immune-boosting ingredients:
Warming Butternut Squash Soup (serves 3–4)
2 T. coconut oil or ghee
1 medium onion
1 clove garlic
1 large butternut squash, cubed (about three pounds)
2 carrots, cut into 1/2-inch rounds
1 small sweet potato, cubed
2 jars EPIC Chicken Bone Broth
1/2 t. dried thyme
1 t. cinnamon
1 t. cumin
1/2 t. cayenne
1/2 t. nutmeg
4 T. coconut cream (plus more for topping)
Pumpkin seeds (for topping)
- In large pot, add oil/ghee and melt on medium heat.
- Add onion and cook until translucent.
- Add garlic, butternut squash, sweet potato, and carrots, and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add two jars of bone broth (about 32 ounces), rosemary sprigs, and spices. Simmer for 20–25 minutes, until sweet potato is very soft.
- Add coconut cream, and stir until incorporated. Add salt to taste (if needed).
- Serve warm and top with pumpkin seeds and additional coconut cream.