The Autumn Wellness Series, Part I

Autumn Wisdom: Nurture Your Lungs, Nourish Your Yin

As the air turns crisp and leaves drift to the ground, autumn invites us to slow down and attune to subtler rhythms. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), autumn is governed by the Metal element and corresponds to the Lungs and Large Intestine. It is a time to gather, conserve, and protect what is essential — especially our internal fluids and lung qi.

🌤 Harmonizing with the Season

According to the Huangdi Neijing (Suwen), one should retire early and rise early during autumn to preserve yin and prevent injury to the lungs. Turning inward and avoiding excess emotional strain allows us to align with nature’s rhythm.

Modern science echoes this wisdom — morning sunlight exposure supports serotonin balance, stabilizing mood and immune function as daylight hours shorten.

🍐 Diet: Moistening and Gentle

Autumn dryness (Qiū Zào) can irritate the lungs and throat, causing dry cough or rough skin.

Moistening foods: pear, white fungus (tremella), lily bulb, yam, lotus root
Nourishing fluids: honey, sesame, loquat, and lotus seed
Moderate sour flavors: to prevent fluid loss, such as hawthorn, plum, or grapefruitAvoid deep-fried, spicy, or alcohol-heavy foods that increase internal heat and dryness.

Simple Remedies:

Steamed pear with fritillaria and honey — a classic lung-soothing recipe
Lily and lotus seed tea — calms the spirit, moistens drynes

💨 Breathing and Movement

Gentle breathing, qigong, or walking outdoors strengthens the lung qi and clears stagnation. Focus on long, deep exhalations — letting go of tension with each breath.

“In autumn, nourish yin, preserve moisture, and release what no longer serves.”

📚 References

Chinese Medicine Tips for Autumn, Coburg Chinese Medicine Clinic (2018) – Link
Healthy Fall Practices in TCM, Unified Practice (2024) – Link
Moving into Autumn with TCM, National Centre for Integrative Medicine (UK, 2023) – Link
Qingzao Jiufei Tang Formula, National Health Commission of China (2015) – Link