The Wisdom of Autumn: Nourishing the Lungs and Letting Go

The Lung and the Season of Fall

In Chinese medicine, the Lung is the organ of Autumn, guiding us through the natural cycle of letting go. Just as the trees release their leaves, we too are invited to shed what no

longer nourishes us—old emotions, stagnant energy, or ways of being that weigh us down. The Lung governs breath, the bridge between the inner and outer world, reminding us that every inhale is a gift of renewal and every exhale a chance to release. In this season, we learn that spaciousness is created not by holding on, but by allowing what no longer serves us to fall away, making room for clarity, presence, and new beginnings.

How Acupuncture Supports the Lung in Fall

Autumn is a time to nurture the Lungs, strengthen immunity, and prepare for the inward, restorative energy of Winter. Acupuncture can help in several ways:

• Strengthens Lung energy to support immunity and prevent seasonal illness The Lungs govern Wei Qi, our body’s defensive energy, protecting us from colds and flu. Acupuncture points such as LU7 (Lieque) and LI4 (Hegu) stimulate the Lungs and boost immune function, helping the body resist seasonal pathogens and maintain vitality.

• Encourages emotional release, easing grief, sadness, or heaviness The Lungs are closely tied to emotions like grief and sadness. Stagnant Lung Qi can leave us feeling heavy or unmotivated. Acupuncture clears this energy, using points like LU9 (Taiyuan) and SP6 (Sanyinjiao), and can be paired with gentle breathwork to foster emotional balance and inner calm.

• Promotes smooth flow of breath and energy for more vitality Shallow breathing, fatigue, or chest tightness can indicate Lung Qi stagnation. Treatments along the Lung and Governing Vessel channels restore smooth energy flow, improving oxygenation and overall vitality. Points like ST36 (Zusanli) strengthen overall Qi, supporting both body and mind during seasonal transitions.

• Balances the body’s rhythms, preparing for Winter Fall is a transitional season, moving from outward summer energy to inward winter rest. Acupuncture regulates Yin and Yang, calming overactive energy and supporting replenishment. Gentle moxibustion on points such as KI3 (Taixi) or REN4 (Guanyuan) nourishes foundational energy, helping the body adapt naturally to seasonal change.

• Supports the Kidney system by conserving energy and building resilience The Kidneys store Jing, our vital essence, and govern long-term vitality. Acupuncture can conserve energy and strengthen resilience for the colder months ahead. Points like KI3 (Taixi), BL23 (Shenshu), and DU4 (Mingmen) help maintain vitality, protect against fatigue, and nurture overall health.

Everyday Foods & Herbs for Lung Support

You don’t have to look far to support your Lungs! Here’s a list of everyday grocery store

herbs and foods commonly used in Chinese medicine to nourish and support the Lung, especially during Autumn:

• Ginger (Sheng Jiang) – warms the Lungs, dispels cold, supports immunity

• Garlic (Da Suan) – clears phlegm, supports Lung qi, and fights seasonal pathogens

• Onion (Cong Bai) – helps open the nasal passages, supports breathing, and dispels external cold

• Cinnamon (Rou Gui / Gui Zhi) – gently warms, improves circulation, supports Lung and Kidney yang

• Pear (Li) – moistens the Lungs, soothes dryness, and calms coughs (especially baked or steamed)

• White Radish/Daikon (Luo Bo) – clears phlegm, aids digestion, and supports Lung qi

• Mushrooms (varieties like shiitake or button) – support immunity and Lung qi

• Honey (Feng Mi) – moistens the throat and Lungs, relieves dryness and irritation

Autumn Pear & Ginger Tea Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe pear (Asian pear if available, but any pear works)

• 2–3 slices of fresh ginger

• 1 tsp honey (to taste)

• 2 cups water

• Optional: a small stick of cinnamon or 2–3 cloves for extra warmth

Instructions:

1. Wash and chop the pear into chunks (no need to peel).

2. Place pear and ginger slices into a small pot with water.

3. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer for 15–20 minutes.

4. Strain into a mug, add honey, and stir gently.

5. Sip slowly, focusing on each inhale and exhale as you drink.

This soothing tea nourishes and moistens the Lungs, eases seasonal dryness, supports immunity, and offers warmth and comfort as the days grow cooler.

Reflection for the Season

Take a quiet moment each day to connect with your breath. As you inhale, invite in clarity and light. As you exhale, imagine releasing what no longer serves you—old stories, tension, or heaviness. You might also try journaling one small thing you’re ready to let go of, and one blessing you’re grateful to receive. In this way, you align yourself with the wisdom of Autumn, honoring the Lung’s rhythm of release and renewal, and preparing your spirit for the stillness of Winter and the season of the Kidney.