TCM Tips for Staying Healthy in Autumn

TCM Tips for Staying Healthy in Autumn

Nourish the Lungs & Prevent Dryness

• Eat moistening foods to counteract dryness, such as:
  • Pears (especially steamed with honey) - a TCM favorite for lung health!
  • White fungus (snow fungus) - a natural lung tonic, great in soups or desserts.
  • Honey, almonds, sesame seeds, and walnuts - support lung and skin hydration.
  • Soups & broths - warming and nourishing for cooler days.
• Avoid excessive spicy or fried foods, as they can create heat and dryness in the body.

Strengthen Immunity ("Wei Qi")

• In TCM, the body’s Wei Qi (defensive energy) acts like an immune shield, and autumn is a key time to boost it before winter.
• Try herbs & teas to support immunity:
  • Astragalus (Huang Qi) - a top herb for strengthening Qi and immunity.
  • Ginger & cinnamon tea - helps warm the body and prevent colds.
  • Goji berries - nourish blood and improve energy levels.

Stay Warm & Protect Your "Wind Gate"

• TCM believes that cold and wind can invade the body, especially through the neck and back (Wind Gate area).
• Wear a scarf to keep your neck warm, especially as temperatures drop.
• Avoid sudden exposure to cold air (like sleeping with a fan on or going outside with wet hair).

Support Emotional Well-being

• Autumn is linked to the emotion of grief in TCM, making it a good time for self-reflection and letting go.
• Practice deep breathing exercises (qigong, tai chi, or yoga) to support lung health and emotional balance.
• Journaling or meditation can help with emotional clarity and processing transitions.

Adjust Sleep & Activity

• As days get shorter, align with nature’s rhythm by going to bed earlier and waking with the sun.
• Gentle movement like walking, yoga, or tai chi keeps Qi flowing without overtaxing the body.

Bringing It All Together: A Simple Autumn Routine

Start the morning with warm lemon water or ginger tea to stimulate digestion.
Eat nourishing, warm foods—soups, steamed veggies, and easy-to-digest grains like rice and oats.
Wrap up with a cozy scarf when going outside to protect against cool winds.
Take time for deep breathing or meditation to strengthen the lungs and release tension.
Wind down with a warm herbal tea (like goji berry & chrysanthemum) before bed.

TCM sees autumn as a season of preparation and self-care, making it the perfect time to slow down and restore balance.

See you in the clinic.

Tabitha Xx