Autumn in Chinese Medicine: Finding Balance as the Seasons Change
As the warmth of summer fades and the cool, crisp air of autumn settles in, nature starts to slow down, preparing for rest and restoration. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), autumn is associated with the element of metal, the Lung and Large Intestine meridians, and the process of letting go—much like trees shedding their leaves.
This season is about refining, releasing what no longer serves us, and strengthening the body's defences. Understanding how autumn affects our body, mind, and spirit can help us stay balanced and healthy through the seasonal transition.
How Autumn Affects Your Body
According to TCM, the Lungs are particularly vulnerable during autumn. They govern the skin, respiration, and immunity, so taking care of the lungs is crucial to ward off seasonal colds, dryness, and fatigue. Dryness is also a common issue during this time, often manifesting in the skin, throat, and nasal passages.
Autumn also invites us to focus inward—emotionally and mentally—letting go of any lingering sadness or grief, as these emotions are closely connected to the Lung energy.
What to Eat in Autumn
In TCM, food is medicine, and eating seasonally can help keep your body in harmony with the changing environment. Since autumn is associated with dryness, it's important to focus on hydrating and moistening foods that nourish the Lungs.
Foods to Nourish the Lungs:
Pears: A classic in TCM for nourishing Lung Yin and moistening the dryness of autumn. Try cooking pears with a little honey and ginger for a warming dessert.
White foods: Like turnips, cauliflower, radishes, and onions—these are linked to the Lung and Large Intestine meridians and can help boost immunity and clear heat.
Root vegetables: Think sweet potatoes, carrots, and parsnips—grounding and nourishing, perfect for the cooler weather.
Nuts and seeds: Particularly almonds and sesame seeds, which provide healthy fats that help combat dryness.
Oats and millet: These grains are slightly warming and help strengthen the digestive system while providing much-needed moisture.
Hydration
To counteract autumn dryness, keep your water intake consistent, but not too cold. Warm teas, such as ginger or cinnamon, can help keep your body warm and support digestion. You might also include soups and broths in your meals—these are easy to digest and help keep the body hydrated from the inside out.
Simple Autumn Recipe: Pear and Ginger Soup
This recipe is light, nourishing, and perfect for autumn.
Ingredients:
2 ripe pears (peeled and chopped)
1 small piece of fresh ginger (grated)
3 cups of water
Instructions:
Bring the water to a boil and add the pears and ginger.
Simmer for about 20 minutes until the pears are soft.
Serve warm, as a light dessert or soothing snack.
Add honey to taste if desired.
This soup is great for easing throat dryness, nourishing the Lungs, and gently supporting the immune system.
The Role of Acupuncture in Seasonal Transitions
Autumn is a time of change, and acupuncture can help support your body through this transition. In TCM, acupuncture helps to boost the Lung energy, strengthen immunity, and prevent imbalances that may lead to seasonal ailments such as colds, dry skin, or respiratory issues.
Regular acupuncture treatments during seasonal changes can harmonize the body’s energy, promote circulation, and clear out any stagnation that may have built up over the summer months. It's also a time to focus on releasing any emotional burdens or stress, allowing space for growth and renewal.
A quote from the Yellow Emperor's Classic of Medicine (Huangdi Neijing) reminds us of the importance of balancing with the season:
"In the three months of autumn, all things in nature reach their full maturity. The heavenly energy cools, the earthly energy clears, and the lungs are in the season to be nurtured."
By nurturing your body now, you’ll feel stronger and more balanced as the colder months approach.
As we enter the colder, drier months, acupuncture can play a key role in boosting your immune system, promoting lung health, and helping you adjust to the change of seasons with ease. Whether you’re looking to address physical imbalances or simply want to support your overall well-being, acupuncture offers a gentle and natural way to stay in harmony with the world around you.
Consider scheduling an acupuncture session this autumn to strengthen your body, prevent seasonal ailments, and ease into the slower rhythm of the season.