In Traditional Chinese Medicine, each season correlates to an element and an organ system; Autumn is associated with the Metal element which corresponds to the Lungs and Large Intestine organs.  The lungs are responsible for accepting the new while the large intestine’s job is letting go of what we don’t need.  These two systems need to be in balance in order for our bodies to stay healthy during the Fall season.  If imbalanced, we are more susceptible to respiratory illnesses, allergies and constipation.

To keep the lungs healthy, we need to adapt to new fall schedules that are often busier than the laid back, fun summer schedules.  One of the most effective ways to keep our lungs strong is to breathe deeply.  Sounds easy enough, but it is something that we often forget or don’t pay much attention to on a daily basis.  Breathing deeply increases the oxygenation to the brain and all the body’s cells.  Try it: breathe in deeply through your nose until your belly rises.  Hold your breathe for a count of five and then exhale slowly and completely until your lungs empty.  Repeat this exercise three times and notice the sense of calm that comes over your body.  

Fall is also a great time to declutter your home and “let go” of things you no longer need to make it a more comfortable place to enjoy during the winter when we tend to be indoors more often. It is also a good time to let go of any negative thoughts that are preventing you from achieving any goals you have set for yourself. 

The lungs like warmth and moisture which is opposite of the cool and dry autumn weather. In order to protect our lungs during this season, we should wear a scarf when heading outside for walks or activities.  Including foods like Asian pears, honey, cauliflower, avocado, water chestnuts and almonds help keep our lungs moistened and healthy.  For a dry cough, drinking marshmallow root tea helps ease it.

To offset the cooling outside temperatures and to protect our digestive system start switching your diet over from the raw salads and fruits of the summer to more warming cooked foods for autumn.  Eat more nuts, roasted root vegetables, barley, kale, mushrooms, tofu, eggs, cooked soups and stews.  Try adding warming spices such as garlic, ginger, cloves and/or cinnamon to your foods for an additional warming boost.

Maintaining balance through seasonal changes is critical to our health and wellbeing.  Following the tips above as well as getting acupuncture at each Equinox are great ways to keep your body in balance and healthy at these pivotal points in the year.