As the trees shed their leaves and the days get cooler, autumn is a time for slowing down, letting go of emotional baggage, fortifying the immune system.
In the holistic world of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this season is associated with the Metal element
The element which governs the lungs and large intestine – organs central to both our physical health and our emotional wellbeing. The emotions of sadness and grief are closely linked to the lungs and the Metal element, and the energy of autumn is ideal for gently processing and releasing them.
Understanding the interconnections between the seasons, elements, and our physical and emotional states can help us optimize our wellbeing all year round. So let’s explore how to embrace this autumn season to support our immune system, release emotional burdens and find a balanced state of body and mind.
The Metal Element: Purification and Protection
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Metal element is associated with qualities of refinement, purification and clarity. It governs the lungs and large intestine, which are crucial for processing and letting go – whether that means exhaling used air or releasing physical and emotional waste. When these organs function optimally, our immune system is robust, our skin is healthy, and we can let go of grief and sadness with grace.
Conversely, an imbalance in the Metal element can manifest as respiratory issues, digestive problems or a weakened immune system, alongside emotional challenges like excessive sadness or difficulty coping with loss.
Grief and the Immune System
According to In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), unresolved sadness and grief can affect the lungs and large intestine, compromising our ability to breathe deeply and eliminate waste efficiently. This stagnation can weaken the body's defensive qi (immunity), making us more susceptible to colds, flu and other illnesses, particularly in autumn. Recognising the influence of emotions on our physical health is key to fostering resilience in the face of seasonal changes.
Autumn provides a natural opportunity to work with the Metal element, using its energy to fortify our immune system, enhance lung function, and gently process any lingering grief. Read on for some effective practices to harmonise with this season, from qigong to acupressure points, breathing exercises and lifestyle tips.
Qigong for Immune Boost, Healthy Lungs and Emotional Release
Try this simple but effective Qigong routine to turbocharge your immune system, refresh your lungs and release emotional burdens!
Acupressure to Boost Immunity & Lung Health, Release Sadness & Grief
Acupressure is a practical way to support lung function, strengthen the immune system and process emotions like sadness and grief. (If you’re new to self-acupressure, check out our guide for tips on how to get started!)
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Here are a few key points to improve digestion and relieve stress:
LUNG MERIDIAN
Central Treasury or Zhong fu – LU1
Cloud Gate or Yun men – LU2
These two points lie close together on the upper chest, in the dip below the outer edge of your collarbone, near where it meets the shoulder. LU2 is just under the collarbone, and LU1 is directly below it, between the first and second ribs.
They can be massaged separately, or you can massage them together using three fingers, or by moving your thumb up and down between them.
Gently stimulating these points can help clear lung congestion, improve breathing and relieve emotional tension associated with grief and sadness.
LUNG MERIDIAN Great Abyss or Tai yuan – LU9
Located on the inside of your wrist, just below the base of your thumb, in the depression between the tendons.
LU9 is a power point for lung health. Stimulating it strengthens the lungs and brings relief for all kinds of respiratory conditions like coughs, colds, asthma and chest congestion. It’s also great for releasing trapped emotions, easing feelings of deep sadness or grief by promoting the flow of energy in the lungs.
LARGE INTESTINE MERIDIAN Joining Valley or Hegu – LI4
Located on the back of the hand, in the webbing between the thumb and index finger.
This panacea point is known for its ability to strengthen the immune system, relieve pain and support the large intestine's function. It can also help release emotional tension, making it a powerful ally during autumn.
For more immunity-boosting acupressure points and advice, see our DIY Acupressure Massage for a Strong Immune System guide!
Practical Tips for Embracing Autumn and Fortifying the Metal Element
1. Breathing Exercises: Practising deep, mindful breathing can support lung health and help process grief. Inhale deeply through the nose, expanding the abdomen, and exhale slowly through the mouth, releasing tension. This simple practice can be done daily to strengthen the lungs and calm the mind.
Good to Read: Breathing for a Happy Mind
2. Dietary Adjustments: Autumn is a time for warm, cooked foods that support the lungs and large intestine. TCM recommends pungent ingredients such as onion, garlic, ginger, turnip and radish to boost immunity and clear out mucus. It’s time to ease off on those summer salads and other cold foods, but the good news is many seasonal fruits and nuts are on the TCM go-list for autumn: pears, apples, plums, apricots, walnuts and almonds all help to nourish our energy at this transitional time of year.
3. Hydration: Warm drinks are a great support for the immune system at this time of year. Enjoy teas made with ingredients like ginger, cinnamon, lemon and honey to soothe the respiratory tract and aid digestion.
4. Mindful Reflection: Autumn is a time for introspection and letting go. Engage in practices like journaling or meditation to reflect on any unresolved grief or sadness. Allow yourself to process these emotions and release them.
5. Outdoor Activity: Spend time in nature, taking in the bracing, crisp autumn air. Walking in the fresh air can help open the lungs and clear the mind. If possible, try to walk in areas with trees, as they release oxygen and help purify the air.
6. Warmth and Protection: As the weather cools, keep the body warm, especially the chest and neck areas, to protect the lungs from cold drafts that can lead to respiratory issues.
Enjoy the autumn! We’ll be back in December with the next in this series of seasonal guides, offering TCM tips to nourish your vital energy, strengthen the kidneys and release fear – to help you stay warm and well through the winter!
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