halcyon house

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Tag: Seasonal

  • Did you know your body has a balance system?

    Did you know your body has a balance system?

    What is our balance system?

    One of our eight senses is the vestibular system — our inner sense of balance and movement. It helps us know where we are in space, keeps us upright, and supports coordination, focus, and emotional regulation.

    Here in the Northland, April is all about the thaw, the gentle ending of our winter reset. Ice loosens, snow melts, and the ground shifts beneath our feet. Wind moves through bare trees. The weather is unsteady and unpredictable — and sometimes we feel that way too. When we intentionally notice gentle movement — slow walks on uneven ground, swaying branches, rocking, stretching, or simply lifting your face to the sunshine and feeling the ground beneath your feet, we give our balance system a chance to recalibrate and reconnect after winter’s stillness.

    This month, move with awareness. Your nervous system is waking up with the season — and steady, intentional movement can help you find your footing again.

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  • Spring equinox

    Spring equinox

    Spring equinox to me has always meant the height or middle of spring. I consider February 1st to be the beginning of the end of winter and the returning of the sun in preparation of spring. I think this helps me mentally make it through a rough winter. The sun is returning and there is hope for warmer days ahead. This is also a time when seeds are chosen to be planted for the summer growing season and fall harvest. What a great opportunity to clean our outer and inner spaces.

    What do you want to grow this year?

    Community, Self-love, compassion, strength? Stand or sit in a window facing East in the morning and soak in the morning light to help the body reset the Circadian Rhythm. Decide which idea/seed you want to nurture on this day/week/year and breathe the morning light into it as you sip your tea or coffee. Have hope! Soon there will be flowers to smell and all of the ice in Minnesota will be gone.

  • Winter grieving

    Winter grieving

    It has been said that winter is the time for grieving. We at Halcyon House have experienced some personal losses recently and are thankful for the wonderful community around us.

    We hope to cherish our loved ones during the holidays, share some tea and hot cocoa, and make the most of our time together.

  • Winter Digestive Cleanse

    Winter Digestive Cleanse

    Winter digestive cleansing is something that many people want to do to start the new year fresh. The tendency is to want to juice fast; however, in the winter that is very hard on the body—especially in Northern Minnesota. My suggestion has always been to do a kitchari cleanse to give your digestion a rest while nourishing your body in a gentle way. Kitchari is an Ayurvedic Indian recipe that uses split lentils and rice to make a complete protein. Spices are balanced between all five tastes: sweet, spicy, salty, pungent, and sour. If you are feeling the desire to fast this winter, try kitchari cleansing. Here is a great recipe to get you started: Kitchari Recipe 

  • Winter

    Winter

    As winter approaches, we find ourselves in the most Yin time of year. This is a season of going inward, conserving energy, slowing down, and honoring rest. Let these months guide you back to yourself. Find your rhythm in the season: seek out warmth, joy, and light while not overextending yourself. A mindful balance of activity and introspection will help keep the yin and yang healthy.

  • TCM warming broth

    TCM warming broth

    Cold and cough season has arrived. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the lungs, which open to the nose and mouth through the respiratory passages, are considered the most delicate of the five yin organs and the easiest for external influences to affect. These external factors are described as six types: 

    • Wind
    • Cold
    • Dampness
    • Dryness
    • Heat
    • Fire

    Coughs are most often linked to Wind, though Wind frequently combines with other influences such as Cold, Heat, or Dryness, depending on seasonal conditions. Wind enters from the back of the neck and ankles. Wrap up in a scarf or buff to keep your neck ‘wind gate’ covered!

    Here is a quick and easy recipe to nip that cold in the bud:

    • 1 green onion, white portion, thinly sliced
    • 1 clove of garlic, sliced thinly
    • 1-2 thin slices of fresh ginger, unpeeled
    • 1 to 1.5 cups of bone broth or water

    Bring the water or broth to a boil, add ingredients and turn down to a simmer after a few minutes. Strain and cool a few minutes to a comfortable temperature. Serve in a mug or bowl.

    This may induce a slight sweat which helps expel dis-ease from the body. Snuggle up in some blankets, but if you feel damp rinse off and put on dry clothes.

  • Autumn

    Autumn

    In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Autumn is seen as a season of reflection and release. Just as the trees let go of their leaves without resistance, we too are reminded to surrender what no longer serves us. This season invites us to trust the natural cycles of life, knowing that in time, new growth and renewal will come.

    In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Autumn is associated with the Lungs and Large Intestine, which belong to the Metal element and are influenced by dryness. Pears are often recommended in this season for their ability to regenerate fluids, quench thirst, moisten the lungs and throat, calm restlessness, and promote urination. In TCM practice, pears are typically enjoyed steamed or baked, as cooked foods are generally preferred for supporting digestion and overall balance.

    Here is a fun Traditional Chinese Medicine Autumn Bucket List:

    • Cook Warming Foods – Thick soups, roasted root vegetables, and use a lot of garlic and ginger to help build Qi.
    • Deepen your Breath – Try out a breathwork exercise, attend a Qigong class, or go for a simple walk to generate Lung Qi.
    • Practice Letting Go – Declutter a space in your home, clear out your closet and organize, try a journaling session reflecting on what you’d like to drop with the leaves during this seasonal shift.
    • Support you Lungs – Make a pear and honey tea or steam/bake some pears to moisten your lungs and regenerate your bodily fluids.
    • Create Rituals – Light candles, read poetry upon waking, set seasonal intentions, honor cycles and change.
    • Gather and Reflect – Share a meal with a friend or loved one, give gratitude for the warmth and nourishment.