Self care for the Lungs in Autumn
Autumn is the time when leaves fall to the ground and begin to decompose creating fertile ground and the potential for growth in Spring. Similarly, the human body naturally wants to pare down, introvert and begin a season of focused energy. There is a real shift that is almost palpable on the Autumn Equinox when the energy that previously flowed outward begins to turn inward in preparation for the winter ahead. It’s a common time to notice feelings of nostalgia or perhaps a feeling of grief that Summer has come to an end. Autumn is associated with the Lungs in Traditional Chinese Medicine, its paired emotion is grief, and it is associated with the colour white and a pungent taste. It’s not unusual for grief to resurface at this time of year and it is a good time to focus on releasing these old emotions. We may grieve the loss of a person, a homeland, a feeling of belonging, our ancestors, the grief of a challenging time, a cherished pet. When the Lung is given space to grieve, it naturally, over time, strengthens the Lung’s resilience and enhances its functional roles of immunity, regulation of the rhythms in the body, and fluid metabolism.
Ailments that we tend to see at this time of year include allergies, common colds, sinus problems, coughs and asthma, skin problems, grief/sadness, changes in bowel movements and fatigue. If you feel that your “Metal” Element may need some support then this is a good time to book in for some Acupuncture.
Self Care for the Metal Element
Breathing
The lungs are nourished by breathing. Plenty of fresh air is one brilliant way to amplify Lung energy. Exercise in whatever form is supportive for the Lungs and bringing awareness to the breath with therapeutic breath work.
Singing
Helps to release stuck energy in the Lungs and get Lung energy flowing
Skin Brushing
The lungs and the skin have a close connection in Chinese Medicine. “Body brushing” in the shower or bath is a great practice at this time of year.
Releasing Emotions
Find ways to release sadness/grief or speak to a therapist
Foods that Strengthen the Lungs (Weak Lung Qi)
White foods are seen to Strengthen the Lungs in Chinese Medicine and by white foods we don’t mean bread and pasta! Wholesome foods which are naturally white in colour are the way to go including: Pears, water chestnuts, cauliflower, almonds, onions, parsnips, cauliflower, leeks, white mushrooms, turnips, radish (particularily white daikon radish), garlic, ginger and white meat. Carrots, sweet potatoes, asparagus, sweet rice, oats, seaweeds and certain herbs and spices such as flaxseed, fenugreek, elecampagne, liquorice and marshmallow root are also supportive for the Lungs. When tolerated dairy is strengthening for the Lung “Yin'“ as are bananas and egg but in some cases can cause a build-up of phlegm so speak to a practitioner before trying this.
To reduce Phlegm in the Lungs
Pungent foods (need not be super spicy to have this effect). The onion family, for example garlic, onion, ginger, cinnamon, horseradish and white peppercorns. Mustard greens, seaweeds, turnip and radishes are also good at reducing Phlegm. Some useful herbs to drink as a tea to reduce Phelgm include liquorice, mullein, nettles, elacampane and fenugreek. See our other blog post for a brilliant traditional Chinese Turnip cough syrup which you can use at home.
The Blossom Tree Clinic giving support with Acupuncture in Totnes Dartington.
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