Moving Through Autumn with Intention

Autumn in Australia is a quiet transition, a soft exhale after the fullness of summer. It reminds us that not all change needs to be dramatic. Some of the most meaningful shifts happen gently, beneath the surface.

If I am completely honest my body still feels like its in the northern hemisphere, my circadian rhythm is still catching up… I feel like spring is just around the corner.

Through a yin practice, you can meet this season with presence and ease. By slowing down and letting go, you create space, not just in your body, but in your life.

And in that space, something new can begin.

The Energy of Autumn: The Metal Element

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, autumn is governed by the Metal element. Where spring’s Wood energy is about growth and expansion, Metal represents refinement, clarity, and release.

This is the season of shedding, physically, emotionally, and mentally.

Why Yin Yoga in Autumn?

Yin yoga is slow, grounding, and introspective, making it the perfect complement to autumn’s energy.

By holding poses for longer periods, yin targets the deeper connective tissues while calming the nervous system. It encourages stillness, not just in the body, but in the mind.

Key Poses for the Metal Element

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the Metal element is associated with the lungs and large intestine meridians, as well as themes of letting go, grief, clarity, and boundaries. Yin Yoga poses that open the chest, shoulders, and arms are especially effective.

These poses stimulate the lung meridian (running through the chest and inner arms) and the large intestine meridian (outer arms and shoulders), helping release emotional stagnation and support deep breathing.

1. Melting Heart (Anahatasana)

2. Supported Fish Pose

3. Thread the Needle

4. Eagle Arms (Garudasana arms in Yin)

5. Banana Pose (side body stretch)

6. Puppy Pose with Side Stretch

7.  Ssvasana (for as long as you need)

Closing Thoughts: Honouring the Metal Season

This season invites us to slow down and let go. Like autumn leaves falling, we release what no longer serves us,creating space for clarity and renewal.

Through breath and stillness, we soften, open, and reconnect with what truly matters. Each inhale nourishes; each exhale clears.

Carry this with you: gently release, breathe deeply, and move forward with lightness.