🍂Staying Healthy in Autumn: A TCM Perspective
- acuhourdc
- Oct 9
- 2 min read
As the days grow cooler and the air turns crisp, autumn invites us to slow down and turn inward. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this season is associated with the Lung and Large Intestine meridians, both of which help us process and release — physically, emotionally, and energetically. It’s a time to strengthen the immune system, support the lungs, and prepare the body for the colder months ahead.
1. Embrace the Energy of the Season
Autumn is about letting go, just as trees release their leaves. In TCM, this is a natural time to reflect, simplify, and clear out what no longer serves you — whether that’s old habits, clutter, or stress.
Try spending quiet moments outdoors, breathing deeply and connecting with the changing air.
Prioritize rest and mindful routines that create stability and warmth.
2. Nourish Your Lungs and Immune System
The lungs are especially sensitive to dryness and cold, which can lead to coughs, congestion, or lowered immunity.
TCM tips:
Hydrate and moisturize: Drink warm water or herbal teas (like pear, ginger, or chrysanthemum) to keep your lungs and throat comfortable.
Eat moistening foods: Incorporate pears, apples, honey, sesame seeds, and root vegetables.
Avoid excessive cold or raw foods: These can weaken digestion and energy (Qi) as the weather cools.
3. Support Digestion and Elimination
The Large Intestine works with the Lung to help the body release what it doesn’t need — physically and emotionally.
Eat cooked, warming meals with seasonal ingredients like squash, sweet potatoes, carrots, and ginger.
Maintain regular mealtimes and chew slowly to support digestion.
Gentle movement, like walking or Qi Gong, encourages circulation and healthy elimination.
4. Strengthen Your Protective Qi (Wei Qi)
Wei Qi is your body’s natural defense against illness — like your energetic immune shield.
Get consistent, restful sleep.
Keep your neck and chest warm in windy weather.
Consider acupuncture to support lung health, boost immunity, and help you adapt smoothly to seasonal changes.
5. Tend to the Emotions of Autumn
In TCM, the emotion linked to autumn and the Lung is grief. This doesn’t mean the season is sad — rather, it’s a natural time to process emotions and make peace with change.
Journaling, meditation, or simply acknowledging your feelings can help create emotional balance.
Breathe deeply — each exhale is an opportunity to release and reset.
Autumn reminds us that there is beauty in slowing down and letting go. By aligning your habits with the rhythm of the season, you strengthen your body, calm your mind, and prepare for the quiet restoration of winter.
At Acu Hour, we love helping our patients stay balanced through each season. Acupuncture and herbal support can be powerful tools to keep your energy grounded and your immune system strong as the weather shifts.
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