Keeping Your Lungs and Immunity Strong in Autumn

Autumn is a season of beauty and transformation – the air is crisp, the leaves change, and the scents of apples, pumpkins, and cinnamon fill the air. In Chinese medicine, autumn is linked to the Lungs, Large Intestine, and the Metal element. As the season invites us to turn inward, it’s the ideal time for self-reflection and letting go—just like trees shedding their leaves.

Dryness dominates this season. It affects the lungs and large intestine, leading to dry skin, coughing, sneezing, and constipation. Environmental factors like dry air and pollutants can worsen these symptoms, depleting body fluids and making us more susceptible to colds and fatigue.

Below, I list foods that nourish the body and support your lungs and intestines:

•  Asian Pears – Moisturize the lungs

•  Bone and Vegetable Broths – Fortify immunity

•  Dark Leafy Greens – Nutrient-dense

•  Goji Berries – Strengthen immunity

•  Cucumbers – Hydrating and soothing

•  Millet, Quinoa, Rice – Grounding grains

•  Mushrooms – Boost immunity

Here’s a list of herbs and supplements to further support your health in autumn:

Metal Element Formula contains herbs like ligustri berry, a potent immune booster, white mulberry, traditionally used for lung health and Cherokee rose with a rich supply of antioxidants like vitamin C and other herbs collectively strengthen respiratory and immune systems. 

Exquisite Skin, featuring Peony, Dong Quai, and Astragalus roots, is renowned for its skin-rejuvenating and nurturing qualities while keeping skin hydrated. 

Natural Immunity contains a blend of medicinal mushrooms, such as Lion’s Mane, Turkey Tail, Maitake, and Reishi, to help counter viruses and cancer cells while enhancing immune function.

The Po: Your Body’s Corporeal Soul

Autumn is not just about physical health—it’s also an emotional season. The Po, or Corporeal Soul, resides in the lungs and governs our senses and physical responses, like breathing and digestion. Think of the Po as the spirit that connects us to our body, regulating emotions and physical sensations. It plays a role in how we process grief and the act of "letting go."

Balanced breathing strengthens the Po, while an imbalance can lead to anxiety, worry, or emotional stagnation, such as grief and depression. The Po is closely tied to our Essence (Jing), which depletes with age, making this time of year crucial for nourishing both body and spirit.

Practices to Strengthen the Po

Breathing exercises, qi gong, specifically Chi Gong for the Metal Element, and meditation are powerful ways to nurture the Po and bring balance. These practices support the lungs, calm the mind, and help release what’s no longer needed physically and emotionally.

Acupuncture for Seasonal Balance

Acupuncture, especially when paired with vagus nerve stimulation, can help balance the Po and support overall health by regulating breathing, circulation, digestion, and mental wellness. It’s an excellent way to stay aligned during the seasonal transition.

Embrace the Season

As we settle into autumn, remember to nourish both body and soul. Incorporate the right foods, supplements, and practices to support your Lungs, Large Intestine, and emotional well-being.

For personalized guidance, contact the Tao of Wellness to schedule a consultation. We look forward to helping you navigate this season in balance and strength.