INCENZO presents: Fall in the AirIn Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), fall is associated with the Metal element, symbolizing both clarity and the ability to release and let go of things that are no longer needed, just as the trees shed their leaves.
The season represents a shift from the expansive, active energy of summer (yang) to a more inward, reflective state (yin). The lungs and large intestines are the organs linked with Metal, making fall an ideal time to focus on breathwork, emotional release, and clearing both the body and mind.
This process of letting go is mirrored in fall cleaning practices. As the trees prepare for winter by shedding their leaves, we too can engage in cleaning our homes and surroundings.
This aligns with the Metal element’s focus on organization and purity, helping to create a more harmonious space. By decluttering and tidying up, not only do we refresh our environment, but we also help foster mental and emotional clarity.
A fall cleaning ritual could include purging old or unnecessary items, cleaning surfaces and spaces that are often neglected, and incorporating elements such as essential oils or incense to purify the air.
Just as exhaling allows for the release of what is no longer needed, fall cleaning allows us to create space for new experiences and energy to flow freely in the upcoming months.
Take this season as an opportunity to harmonize your physical environment with your internal state, ensuring that both are free of stagnation. If you need some inspirations to start with, try out the following three ways of fall cleaning:
- Declutter and Organize Your Space
- Sort Through Unused Items: Begin by going through closets, storage spaces, and drawers. Donate or discard things you no longer need or use. This helps to clear out physical clutter, which can have a direct effect on mental clarity.
- Deep Clean Surfaces: Fall is the perfect time to deep clean areas often overlooked, such as baseboards, windows, and carpets. Use natural cleaning products to cleanse your living space, helping to refresh and rejuvenate the energy in your home.
2. Use Incense to Declutter the Mind and Environment
- Choose Purifying Incense: In traditional Chinese incense culture, ingredients such as sandalwood, cedar and acronychia wood are often used to purify and clear the air. Light the incense and open all doors to allow air to flow around. The smoke is believed to help “clear” negative energy, helping you feel more focused and at ease.
- Mindfulness Ritual: As you burn the incense, focus on your breath, inhaling deeply and slowly. Visualize the smoke absorbing any tension or stress and carrying it away. This process not only cleanses your space but also helps declutter your mind, creating a fresh atmosphere for reflection and relaxation during the fall season.
3. Refresh Your Air and Textiles
- Launder Fabrics: Wash and freshen items like curtains, pillow covers, blankets, and rugs. These materials can gather dust and negative energy over time, so giving them a thorough cleaning will contribute to a lighter, more inviting atmosphere.
- Air Out Your Home: Even if the weather is cooler, open your windows to let in fresh air. It helps to remove stale, stagnant energy and invites in new, fresh chi (energy), which is important for maintaining a balanced and harmonious environment.
Wonder where to find the perfect fall cleaning incense? At INCENZO, we have incense sticks made with 100% natural ingredients following traditional Chinese incense recipes ranging across woody and floral scents.
You can easily find Unwind — sandalwood incense and Illuminate — acronychia wood incense as a starting point. If you’re a floral person, Energize — made with osmanthus which is a classic fall symbol in Chinese culture, can also be a great option.
Embrace the slowing down of the outer environment and nurture your inner Yin with more rest and a deliberate cleansing practice of unwanted thoughts and items.
Enjoy the fall!
[Inspired by Ivy Lee <ivy@luminaewellness.com> ]