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Eating with the seasons used to be the only option, but today with options from all over the world one's overall well being can get confused and ungrounded.  Certain foods grow at specific times of the year and location to help balance the changes the seasons have on our systems.  We are now deep in the season of Fall as the elements become dryer, colder and lighter with the wind picking up to help move things in a stronger and faster way.  We can feel these attributes in our body, and with our thoughts and emotions. Below is a list of a few of the root vegetables of the season and their health promoting benefits according to Chinese Medicine. 

Beetroot - 
Tonify and builds the blood, promotes Qi (energy, Prana) circulation in the body, especially with the Heart, Liver, Small Intestine and Large Intestine. By tonifying blood our body has more nutrients and when we are nourished, we feel more settled and grounded within ourselves. The temperature is neutral, it counteracts cold and the flavor is sweet.

Carrots -
Tonify Qi, and help circulate Qi throughout the body.  They help remove toxins and counteract heat and damp heat in the body.  Carrots nourish our Liver, Lung and Spleen. Their temperature is neutral and their flavor is sweet.

Yams - Tonify and build Qi and Yin.  By balancing and nourishing the Yin in our body we help to calm and ground ourselves.  Yams nourish our Kidneys, Lung and Spleen. Their temperature is neutral and their flavor is sweet.

Incorporating root vegetables into meals can help strengthen one's body and calm their mind throughout changes in their life as well, not just in the Fall.  Understanding the different health benefits of food is a medicine we all can use.

Cheers to your health~