Autumn and Your Lung Qi

Here we are in the waning weeks of Autumn 2020. The alignment of the specific circumstances of the world with Chinese Medicine’s 5 Element theory is eerily sympatico. COVID (which attacks the Lungs), immunity, slowing down, grief, loss - these are all present for us during this unprecedented time. They are also representative of the Metal element in Chinese Medicine which become predominant in the fall season.

From a 5 Element perspective, Autumn is the season of deceleration of momentum. It’s the metal element which “puts the brakes on” and slows down movement. With intention, it can be a time for preparing for the stillness and rest that define the winter months. Therefore, it’s important to avoid activities that drain energy and engage in activities that nourish and protect our energy. In this way, the Lung qi will remain clear and resourced. Regular acupuncture, restorative yoga, deep breathing practices and idle time without an agenda are great tools for cultivating nourishment of the Lung qi.

The Chinese Circadian clock time of the Lungs is between 3-5 each morning and is the 2-hour interval when the Lung qi is most active. Lungs are susceptible to dryness so a humidifier that keeps the air rich with moisture at night - especially during the hours of 3-5 am - can be helpful in supporting Lung qi. 

The paired channel (i.e., the energetic roadway) of the Lungs is the Large Intestine.  Both channels are reflective of the giving and taking, receiving and letting go, consuming and eliminating. They are also an integral line of defense for the immune system when a pathogen enters the body. Therefore, the quality of their qi - or lack thereof - often relates to the frequency and severity of illnesses such as colds. 

An immune system boosting diet of greens, sesame seeds and warming foods are great for the lungs in autumn. Greens lightly sauteed and eaten before a meal also opens the Lung qi so that the Stomach can more readily receive the nourishment of the rest of the meal. See WCA’s 11/14/20 blog post for the super-charged, super seed, super recipe for Sesame Bliss Balls! 

Lungs also hold and process loss, grief and sadness. To the degree our Lung qi remains clear and resourced, we are more able to process these emotions. Applying cypress essential oil to the acupuncture point Lung 3 Tian Fu “Palace of Heaven” can assist the Lungs when experiencing new or old energies of loss, grief or sadness.

In the Nei Jing - a classic Chinese Medicine text - medicine was presented as the “art of celebrating the healthy body and preventing any detachment from the vitality-imbuing cycles of nature.” The more conscious, in harmony and in rhythm we are with the cycles of nature in all of its glory and reflections, the more we can create vitality and balance in our lives.