Frost Descent: 18th Seasonal Node (October 23 – November 7, 2025)
October 23, 2025 marks Frost’s Descent, the 18th of the 24 solar terms and the final stage of autumn. At this point, the Sun reaches 210° celestial longitude. The light of day grows noticeably softer, the weather grows colder and can reach the frost point. Nature begins its gradual and quiet descent toward winter.
The theme of Frost’s Descent is conservation, gathering what’s essential, storing warmth and protecting the body from the deep cold ahead.
Psycho-Emotional Shifts
As we enter this seasonal node, nature is in transition… slowing down, conserving and preparing for the deep rest of winter. The natural world begins to withdraw its energy inward. We may feel this same shift in ourselves, a quiet pull to rest, simplify and let go of excess activity. It’s the body’s innate wisdom conserving and preparing for the colder months ahead.
Emotionally, Frost Descent encourages us to slow down and conserve energy. It’s a time to let go of excess in activity, thought or emotion and make space for what’s nourishing. When we align with the energy of each season, we better understand the changes happening in us and move through them with more balance and ease.
This is a good time to:
• Go to bed earlier
• Keep the lower back, neck, and feet warm
• Spend some time outdoors, taking in the beauty and qi of the season
• Create a home environment that feels calm and peaceful
A nightly warm foot bath can help warm the body. The warmth travels upward from the Kidney 1 point on the sole of the foot, gently soaking into the muscles, tissues and organs. When you begin to lightly sweat, it’s a sign that the warmth permeated the whole body.
Seasonal Diet (Five Element Nutrition)
It’s time to focus on deeper nourishment and warmth. Foods that strengthen the Kidneys, Spleen and Lungs help build reserves for the coming winter.
Moistening and Tonifying Foods:
Pears, dates, black sesame, honey, walnuts
Hot cereal and soups with root vegetables
Warming and Tonifying Foods:
Sweet potatoes, pumpkin, squash, carrots, oats
Leeks, scallions and mustard greens
Miso soup, bone broth, congee, ginger tea
Warming Foods:
Ginger, cinnamon
Lamb or chicken (in moderation), warming spices
Digestive and Circulation Support:
Mustard greens lightly sautéed with garlic or ginger
Millet, barley, white rice
Herbs and Extras:
Goji berries
Teas with cinnamon, ginger or licorice root
Best to Avoid:
Cold drinks, raw foods and excess sugar
Heavy or greasy meals that burden digestion
Spicy or overly drying foods that scatter warmth
Closing Reflection
Just like the world outside, we’re invited to slow down and gather energy for what comes next. This is a great time to notice the beauty of late autumn, the frosted grass, the leaf colors and golden light. Autumn also has some of the most beautiful sunsets.
Spending time in nature helps the body adjust to the season’s shift.
