The Autumn Wellness Series, Part II
- David TJ Lin, EAMP, Dipl, O.M. (NCCAOM)
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 16 hours ago
Strengthening Your Inner Defense: Immunity, Emotion & Gentle Motion in Fall
Autumn may seem calm, yet beneath its surface, our body adjusts continuously — conserving energy and recalibrating immunity. In TCM, this season governs the Lung and Large Intestine, reflecting the balance between intake and release, both physically and emotionally.
🛡 Strengthening Defensive Qi (Wei Qi)
In Chinese medicine, Wei Qi functions like an energetic shield against external pathogens. Supporting it begins with the lungs:
Keep the neck, chest, and back warm to avoid “wind invasion.”
Stay hydrated with warm water or herbal infusions.
Eat warming but not over-spicy foods such as ginger, garlic, or Chinese yam.
Acupuncture on points like Lung-1 and LI-4 (Hegu) can strengthen respiratory immunity.
💬 Emotional Balance: The Art of Letting Go
Autumn corresponds to the emotion of grief. When grief stagnates, it consumes qi and weakens the lungs. Writing, therapy, or simply spending time in nature can restore emotional flow. The Large Intestine — the organ of release — reminds us to let go of what no longer nourishes us.
Releasing attachment is not loss — it’s renewal.
🧘 Movement for Stability, Not Excess
Avoid strenuous exercise that overuses qi. Instead, favor steady, rhythmical movements such as tai chi, qigong, or walking. Movement in autumn should strengthen without dispersing.
NIH studies show moderate regular exercise boosts mucosal immunity (IgA), helping prevent seasonal colds and flu.
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