Autumn in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) 🍂🍁

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Autumn is a time of transition, moving from the Yang-dominant energy of Summer to the Yin-focused energy of Winter. It is associated with the Metal element, which governs the Lungs and Large Intestine. This season emphasizes letting go, preparing for introspection, and strengthening the immune system.

1. Energy & Emotional Changes

• Autumn is a time for consolidation and letting go (like trees shedding leaves).

• The Lungs govern grief and sadness, so emotions may feel heavier.

• It's a time to reflect, release what no longer serves you, and embrace a sense of clarity.

• Dryness in the air may lead to feelings of melancholy or vulnerability.

2. Organ Focus: Lungs & Large Intestine

• The Lungs control breathing, immunity, and the skin.

• The Large Intestine is responsible for elimination (physically & emotionally).

• Imbalances in Autumn can manifest as:

  • Dry skin, dry throat, dry cough

  • Sinus issues or respiratory infections

  • Constipation or sluggish digestion

  • Emotional resistance to change

3. Dietary Adjustments for Autumn 🥣

As the weather cools, the focus shifts from cooling foods (summer diet) to warming, nourishing foods that support the Lungs and Large Intestine.

Best Foods for Autumn:

✔ Moistening Foods (combat dryness):

• Pears 🍐 (great for lung dryness & coughs)

• White fungus (tremella) 🍄

• Honey 🍯

• Almonds & walnuts 🌰

• Soy products (tofu, soy milk)

  
  

✔ Warming, Slightly Pungent Foods (support Lungs & circulation):

• Ginger, garlic, onions, radish, mustard greens 🧄🧅

• White-colored foods (linked to Metal element): Daikon radish, turnip, cauliflower

  
  

✔ Fiber-Rich Foods (support digestion & Large Intestine):

• Root vegetables (carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin) 🥕

• Whole grains (oats, millet, brown rice) 🌾

  
  

✔ Bone Broths & Soups 🍲

• Nourish Yin, strengthen immunity

🚫 Avoid overly spicy, greasy, or drying foods (too much spice disperses Lung Qi, leading to dryness).

4. Exercise & Movement in Autumn 🏃‍♀️🧘‍♂️

• Gentle, rhythmic movements to strengthen the Lungs and boost immunity.

• Qi Gong, Tai Chi, and Yoga (focus on deep breathing & lung expansion).

• Outdoor walks in fresh air to strengthen Lung Qi.

• Stretching & resistance training to balance the contraction phase of nature.

• Avoid excessive sweating (preserve moisture & prevent Lung dryness).

5. Lifestyle Adjustments for Autumn

• Sleep earlier, wake earlier: Follow nature’s rhythm (like how the sun sets earlier).

• Breathe deeply: Strengthen the Lungs and clear stagnation.

• Declutter & let go: Just as trees shed leaves, clear out what no longer serves you (physically & emotionally).

• Protect yourself from wind & cold: The Lungs are vulnerable to wind; wear scarves to protect your neck.

Key Takeaways for Autumn in TCM 🍂

✔ Strengthen the Lungs & Large Intestine

✔ Eat nourishing, moistening foods

✔ Prioritize deep breathing & lung exercises

✔ Embrace change & let go of what’s unnecessary

✔ Stay warm & protect from dryness

Book Your Acupuncture Session & Find Your Elemental Balance 🌿✨

Are you experiencing any of these imbalances? Instead of pushing through discomfort, TCM helps you listen to your body and make adjustments before bigger health issues arise.

At Evidence Acupuncture with Leanne Hutton, you’ll receive a personalized treatment plan based on your unique elemental imbalances, guiding you back to harmony and optimal well-being.

📅 Book your acupuncture session today and take the first step toward feeling your best!

💻 Book here | 📞 Call: +61 411 307 433