Autumn is here! The change seems to have happened overnight. The morning air is crisp and the days are shorter. You may find yourself a little more focused and serious than during the carefree days of summer. Fall is the time of year to prepare for the cold months of winter and to reflect on the year that has past.
According to Chinese medicine, fall belongs to the Metal element and corresponds with the lungs which control the entire respiratory system. The elegance in Chinese medicine is that it respects and observes the changes of the seasons and provides us with guiding principles to harmonize our energy with that of our environment. Autumn is thought to be the time of year that the lungs are most susceptible to illness due to the dry, cold air and thus is the time for us to focus on respiratory health and reinforce or rebalance one’s Metal energy.
THE LUNGS
Our lungs enable us to take in fresh air, from which we generate “qi” (or “life energy”) while we exhale toxins, stress and the pent up emotions that can weigh us down. Like the season, which bridges the warm months of summer to the cold of winter, the lungs bridge our interior and exterior environments. The lungs have a great deal of responsibility when it comes to maintaining optimal health; they provide the first line of defense against external pathogens, such as viruses and bacteria that cause common respiratory issues.
Our lung qi dictates the strength of our immune system. When lung qi is strong, our immune system is efficient and our body has sufficient energy to tend to daily tasks; however, when lung qi is weak, we are more susceptible to catching colds, asthma attacks, allergies, general fatigue, sore throats, coughing, shortness of breath, respiratory and sinus infections and the accumulation of mucous.
METAL
With the arrival of fall and cooler temperatures, there is a natural sadness that many people experience. Greif is the emotion of the lungs and Metal element. The Metal energy is responsible for characteristics such as integrity, structure, personal boundaries, logical thinking and meticulous work. If you are a Metal dominate person, you are someone that is honorable and truthful; people know exactly where they stand with you. You do not like chaos or conflict, but prefer order and control .You tend to be a perfectionist and are most likely an expert in your career.
Because the mind and body are inseparable, when our qi is blocked we can experience imbalance both physically and mentally. You may feel sadness or grief more often. It may become hard to express yourself. Perfectionist tendencies can lead to disappointment or a critical self-image. What was once structure, becomes obstinate rigidity.
YOUR HEALTH
During this season, take some time to observe your physical and mental well-being. If you’ve been feeling a little out of sorts or have simply put off taking care of yourself, don’t hesitate to come in for a consultation with one of our licensed acupuncturists to find out how Chinese medicine can help you regain and optimize your health!
NATURAL REMEDIES
Pears
Researchers in the Netherlands have found that apples and pears may help protect the lungs from chronic disease. According to Chinese medicine, pears specifically help moisten and strengthen the Lungs.
Flax Tea with Honey
This tea moisturizes the Lungs, expels phlegm and calms cough. Flax is also anti-inflammatory and a natural laxative.
1 Tbsp whole flax – ground in coffee grinder or mortar and pedestal
1 tsp honey
Pour 1 cup boiling water over flax seeds and allow to steep 10 minutes. Strain and add honey.
Miso with Turnips and Tremella Mushrooms
Turnips strengthen the Lungs while Tremella help preserve the natural moisture of the Lungs.
Sesame oil
Turnips diced
Tremella Mushrooms (can be bought online or Asian markets)
1 dallop of miso paste
Vegetable stock
Heat oil, add turnips, and cook until soft. Add turnip greens and mushrooms. Add miso and vegetable stock. Simmer until turnips and mushrooms are cooked through.