Message from our Community Engagement & Development Director    Danny T.  Duong

 The Medicine of Fallen Leaves

Here in California, we recently emerged from an intense heat wave that lasted several days, setting record high numbers throughout the state. Within a couple of days, as we approach the Fall Equinox, the metaphorical leaf quickly turned colors and the air became more crisp and chilling as the days faded and dark skies arrived. Something has already shifted energetically, even in the way the light comes in through the windows at sunset. As our bodies begin adjusting, we welcome the growing stillness of fall to reflect on the gifts of summer time. 

What insights from summer adventures will stay with us? 

How did we experience the playful and passionate energy of fire? 

What did we dream of and co-create with others this season? 

What did the fire element awaken in our spirit? 

While fall time quietly greets us, we are reminded of the nature of transition and the complexity of our human experience in this change of seasons. From the buzzing vibrancy of summer energy, the season of fall invites us to draw inwards and harvest what we created earlier this year – and to let go of all that which does not serve us anymore. As tree leaves gently fall away onto the earth and creatures feast on nature’s abundance to store energy, we gather inwards to our own reserves to see which aspects of ourselves may shed along with them or be harvested. We may wonder about the recently discovered parts of us that may take deeper root. We might explore if we feel comfortable with the stillness of nature which reflects the stillness of who we are.  How will we gather the planted seeds of the summer? How will we nourish and prepare them for the impending darkness of winter time ahead?   

Nature mimics the complexity and richness of our inner beings. The turning of the seasons is a natural process of change, regulation, and re-birth. As we move into this cozy new season, let’s embrace the medicine of fallen leaves. Let us learn from Mother Earth and allow these leaves to build upon the foundation of our values and what’s most important to us, making space on our branches for new possibilities.