Celebrate Halloween according to Traditional Chinese Medicine

Halloween is a special time for celebration, fun, and introspection. But have you ever imagined celebrating it in harmony with the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)? This post will show you how to create an environment that respects the energies of autumn while promoting balance between body and mind. Let’s explore how to connect with the Metal element, embrace nature, and warm body and spirit with spices. Follow my tips to create a memorable and harmonious Halloween.

1. The Metal Element: The Essence of Autumn in TCM 

Imagine a space enveloped in soft light, where white and silver dance in harmony. Light an eucalyptus or lavender incense and let its fresh aroma purify the environment, balancing yin and yang. Each deep breath brings with it a sense of calm, as if you are surrounded by the serenity of autumn. In your decor, use shades of white and silver, symbolizing the purity and brilliance of this element.

Decorating Tips: Add white candles, transparent or metallic crystals, and silver elements to evoke the purifying energy of Metal.
Purification with Incense and Essential Oils: Choose eucalyptus incense or lavender essential oils to balance yin and yang, creating a calm and harmonious atmosphere.

2. Connecting with Nature: Bringing Autumn Indoors 

Be an explorer in your own backyard! Feel the rough texture of dry leaves under your feet and the softness of pine cones in your hands. Bring a little bit of nature into your home: a branch, a stone, or a handful of colorful leaves. Create a natural altar that celebrates the beauty of autumn, inviting serenity into your life.

Walking Suggestion: Feel the fresh air and observe the changes in the trees. Choose a park, a forest, or a nearby trail and take the opportunity to collect some dry leaves, pine cones, or stones to bring natural energy into your home.
Natural Decoration: Create simple arrangements with leaves, branches, and stones. You can use glass jars or small baskets to display your natural treasures, adding an autumnal touch to your home.

3. Warm Spices to Heat Body and Soul 

Let the warm aroma of cinnamon, clove, and cardamom fill your home. Prepare a delicious tea or warm drink, where each sip warms not only the body but also the soul. Feel the warmth spreading through you, creating a cozy atmosphere, perfect for sharing stories and laughter around a table.

Cinnamon, Clove, and Cardamom Tea: Prepare a comforting tea to warm and relax. The combination of these spices helps strengthen yang, the warm energy of the body.
Ginger and Nutmeg Desserts: Try adding these spices to cookies or cakes for a gentle sweetness that harmonizes the body. They are also perfect for adding a festive touch to your Halloween dishes.

Recipe for Hot Spiced Tea with Cinnamon, Clove, and Cardamom

This tea is comforting and aromatic, combining the warming flavors of cinnamon, clove, and cardamom. It’s a great drink to balance yang energy and provide a feeling of coziness. It’s also perfect for enjoying a relaxing afternoon or sharing with friends and family.

Ingredients

- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 cloves
- 4 cardamom pods (lightly crushed)
- 1 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger (or a pinch of ground ginger, if you prefer)
- 2 cups of water
- Honey or maple syrup (optional, to sweeten to taste)
- Milk or plant-based milk (optional, for a creamier version)

Preparation

Boil the Spices: In a small saucepan, place the water, cinnamon stick, cloves, cardamom, and ginger. Bring the mixture to medium heat and let it simmer slowly for about 10 minutes, allowing the spices to release their aroma and flavor.
Sweeten (Optional): If you prefer a sweetened tea, add a little honey or maple syrup to taste.
Add Milk (Optional): For a creamier version, add a cup of your preferred milk or plant-based milk. Heat for a few more minutes, without boiling, so the milk absorbs the flavors of the spices.
Strain and Serve: Strain the tea into a cup and serve hot. You can garnish with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon on top for an extra touch.

Halloween Spiced Cake Recipe 

Ingredients

- 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- ½ teaspoon of baking soda
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon of ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon of ground ginger
- ½ cup of melted coconut oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 cup of pumpkin puree (can use canned or fresh)
- 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- Salt to taste

For the Chocolate Frosting:

- 1 cup of vegan dark chocolate
- 2 tablespoons of almond milk (or other plant-based milk)

For Decoration: 

- Halloween-themed sprinkles (like candy eyes or orange and black sprinkles)
- Nuts or dried fruits (optional)

Preparation

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a round or rectangular pan with a bit of oil and flour.
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and a pinch of salt. Mix well to combine.
Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the coconut oil, pumpkin puree, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract. Mix well with a spatula until you have a smooth batter.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing.
Melt the dark chocolate in a double boiler or microwave. Add the plant-based milk and mix until you have a creamy mixture.
Place the cooled cake on a plate and spread the chocolate frosting on top.

Thematic Decoration: Use Halloween-themed sprinkles to decorate the cake. You can create spooky eyes, spider webs, or any other decoration you wish. If desired, you can also add nuts or dried fruits for an extra touch.
Serving Suggestions: This vegan spiced cake is perfect for serving at Halloween parties or as a dessert for any special occasion. The combination of warm flavors and themed decoration is sure to delight everyone!

4. Thematic and Harmonious Decoration 

Transform your space into a true Halloween fairy tale. Use vibrant orange, pure white, and soft silver tones. The light of white candles dancing gently in the wind creates shadows that whisper ancient stories. Each candle is a wish, each color an emotion. Let the decoration speak for itself and create a magical atmosphere.

Autumn Colors and the Metal Element: Shades of orange, gray, and silver are ideal for creating a harmonious space. Combine decorative pumpkins with silver details for a unique touch.
Candles and Incense: Use white candles to purify the environment and eucalyptus incense to bring freshness to the space, contributing to clarity and serenity.

5. Letting Go and Reflection: The Transformative Power of Autumn 

Autumn is the perfect time to let go. Feel the lightness as you release thoughts and habits that no longer serve you. Create a symbolic ritual: write down what you want to leave behind on a leaf and carefully burn it. Watch the ashes float away, as if each piece of weight dissolves into the fresh air.

Letting Go Ritual: Write something you want to leave behind on paper and, in a safe space, burn it, visualizing the release of that weight.
Introspection Practice: Dedicate a few minutes at the end of the day to reflect on what truly makes you happy and where you need changes.

6. Skin Care: Hydration and Nourishment 

With the change of seasons, your skin craves care. Hydrate it with natural oils, like sweet almond oil, which glides smoothly over the skin, bringing comfort and nourishment. An herbal bath with calendula provides a relaxing and rejuvenating experience, like a warm hug after a long day.

Natural Oils: Sweet almond oil is ideal for hydrating and protecting the skin.
Herbal Baths: Prepare a bath with calendula or chamomile to soothe and soften the skin, promoting complete relaxation.

7. Breathing Practices for Internal Balance 

Feel the fresh morning air filling your lungs, renewing your energy. Practice deep breathing, visualizing each inhalation as a breath of life that connects you with the essence of autumn. Let each exhalation carry away what no longer serves you, making space for new energy.

Outdoor Exercise: Practice deep breathing outdoors, preferably in the morning, to renew your energy and mental clarity.
Conscious Breathing: Take a few minutes to inhale deeply, hold your breath, and exhale slowly, focusing on renewal and balance.

8. Nutritious Foods for Lung and Gut Health

Treat yourself to foods that warm and nourish: crispy apples, juicy pears, creamy pumpkin, and white roots. Prepare a vibrant dish that celebrates the abundance of autumn, while flavors blend in each bite. It’s an explosion of taste and vitality!

Autumn Fruits and Vegetables: Apples, pears, and pumpkin are excellent for strengthening the respiratory system.

Pumpkin and Ginger Soup Recipe: A nutritious soup made with pumpkin, ginger, and garlic is perfect for strengthening the body and providing comfort on chilly days.

Pumpkin and Ginger Soup Recipe

Ingredients

- 1 kg of pumpkin (can be butternut or other variety)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, chopped
- 1 piece of fresh ginger (about 3 cm), peeled and chopped
- 4 cups of vegetable broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon (optional, for an extra touch)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Toasted pumpkin seeds (for garnish)
- Chopped cilantro or parsley (optional, for garnish)
- A drizzle of coconut milk or plant-based cream (optional, for serving)

Instructions
Begin by peeling the pumpkin, removing the seeds, and cutting it into cubes.
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the chopped garlic and ginger and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the pumpkin cubes to the pot and mix well. If you choose to use cinnamon, add it now. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the Broth: Pour the vegetable broth (or water) into the pot and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until the pumpkin is soft.
Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can transfer the soup to a regular blender in batches, being careful not to burn yourself.
Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper as desired. If you prefer, add a bit of coconut milk or plant-based cream to make it even creamier.
Serve the soup hot in bowls, garnished with toasted pumpkin seeds and chopped cilantro or parsley. A drizzle of coconut milk or plant-based cream on top also adds a special touch.

Tips

Side Dishes: This soup pairs perfectly with rustic bread or toast for a complete meal.
Storage: You can store the soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for a quick future meal.

This Halloween, embrace the magic of autumn and celebrate life in harmony with Traditional Chinese Medicine. Each aroma, color, and flavor is an invitation to connect with what truly matters: your essence and the nature around you. May your celebration be a moment of joy, reflection, and renewal!