Cold Dew: 17th Seasonal Node (October 8 – October 22, 2025)
October 8, 2025 marks Cold Dew, the 17th of the 24 solar terms and the fifth of autumn. At this point, the Sun reaches 195° celestial longitude. The mornings and evenings start to feel crisp and cool, while the days remain mild and pleasant. The name Cold dew refers to the time when dew on the grass begins to chill, signaling the true arrival of autumn.
By the time we enter the fifth stage of any season, the qualities of that season are peaking. Yin energy continues to grow stronger as we move closer to winter. The theme of Cold Dew is preservation, protecting warmth, moisture and energy as we transition toward the quieter yin months.
What’s happening in nature
Morning dew is cold
Leaves begin to fall
Hunters moon
Geese begin to arrive in the south
The ground increasingly becomes too cold to walk barefoot comfortably
Psycho-Emotional Shifts
Nature shows us that change is constant. As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to fall, we’re reminded that letting go is a natural part of life. The beauty of this season lies in release, in allowing what’s finished to fall away so there’s space for rest and renewal.
Over the next two weeks, as Yin energy increasingly deepens, we may feel more inward and reflective. These feelings are part of nature’s rhythm, inviting us to slow down and simplify. When we align with the energy of each season, we better understand the changes happening in us.
Emotionally, Cold Dew encourages us to protect warmth, not only in the body but in the heart. This is a time to soften, to stay open and to nourish ourselves with calm routines and comforting connections.
This is a good time to:
Let go of old habits or thoughts that feel heavy
Create warmth in your environment and relationships
Simplify your schedule and rest more
Practice gentle movement and gentle breathwork
Seasonal Diet (Five Element Nutrition)
The focus now slightly shifts from balance to preservation and protection. As Yin energy deepens, it’s important to warm the body and moisten the Lungs. Meals should be cooked, simple and comforting, foods that support digestion and prevent dryness will help the body adjust to the colder days ahead.
Moistening foods for the Lungs:
Pears, apples, persimmons, white sesame seeds, honey
Almonds, walnuts, white rice
Warming and tonifying foods:
Sweet potatoes, pumpkin, squash, carrots, oats
Miso soup, congee, ginger tea
Herbs & teas:
Warming teas such as fresh ginger, cinnamon twig and dried tangerine peel are especially beneficial now. They help strengthen digestion, warm the body and keep Qi moving smoothly.
Best to avoid:
Cold drinks and iced foods
Raw salads and smoothies
Too much spicy or fried food, which can create dryness and heat
Closing Reflection
Cold Dew invites us to slow down and notice the beauty of the changing season. The air feels different now, crisp in the morning, cool at night and the sunlight carries a beautiful soft, golden tone. The leaves begin to fall, and nature quietly and gradually prepares for rest.
Spending time outdoors and taking in the beauty helps our body and mind adjust to the energetic changes of the season. A simple walk, feeling the fresh air and noticing the colors around you, can be deeply nourishing.
Next Season: Frost Descent – October 23, 2025
Speaking of seasonal health… NEXT WEEK Join me for a Six Healing Sounds Qi Gong Masterclass beginning October 15, 2025. Autumn is the perfect season for gentle breathwork, sound and vibration healing. This set will strengthen your lung capacity and immune system.
