Support the Lungs and Large Intestine this fall!
I don't know about you, but I LOVE fall! The cooler temperatures, beautiful colors, soft sweaters and the slowing down is absolutely wonderful.
However, with fall upon us, more people may begin to experience lung issues such as fall allergies, cold or flu symptoms, coughing, or low immune function while others may struggle with grief or letting things go in their lives. This is all typical of the fall season.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) considers fall the “Metal” phase in the 5 elements of nature. Metal is represented within the body with the organs of the Lung and Large Intestine, so taking care of these two organs and their associated meridians are at the forefront during the fall season.
Fall is the natural time of year to switch the more “expansive” energy of summer (think more activities, staying up later, traveling more), to a more “contractive” energy where we want to stay home, have more inner reflection, release old habits or have more time to nap.
In TCM, Fall is the season for the Lungs and Large Intestine
Lungs
Intestine Segment
The Lung and the Large Intestine are paired organ systems in TCM. They contribute to many amazing functions in the body from a western and TCM view. From governing Qi, intaking and distributing oxygen, disposing of waste and supporting a healthy immune system, they are also associated with beautiful skin and hair, distributing fluids and the emotions of sadness and grief.
These two organs and meridians work in a symbiotic way to control the immune system from both the inside and outside of the body. If you take good care of these two organs and meridians during the fall, you can reap the many benefits throughout the season.
Here are 7 simple suggestions to support the Lungs and Large Intestine this Fall.
1.
Wear a scarf this fall (and winter)!
The scarf doesn't need to be super think, but it needs to cover the back of the neck. The large intestine channel runs up the arms, across the shoulders, up the neck, over the face and ends next to the nose. As you know, the health of our gut plays a HUGE part in our immunity, so keeping the large intestine channel warm and preventing exposure from the elements will help to keep you healthy. I cant stress this enough. Prevent cold wind from the back of your neck and it will really help you to stay healthy, I have used it SO many times over the years with amazing success. Cold pathogens can enter the body through the pores or nasal cavity but wrapping the neck and shoulders with a scarf can help ward off the pathogens.
2.
Eat seasonally.
There are some super tasty foods during the fall so make sure to include more of them during the fall/autumn months as well as foods that boost the energy of the lung and large intestine meridians. Always shoot for high food diversity to support a healthy gut microbiome.
Foods to enjoy during the fall months include apples, squash, broccoli, sweet potatoes, pears, dark leafy greens, yams, bananas, horseradish, garlic, onions, cabbage, carrots, cranberries, ginger, fermented foods, beans, pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, pepper, cardamom, rosemary, turmeric, wild rice and warming soups and stews. Don't forget to add some warm herbal teas in the fall as well.
3.
Embrace warm foods.
As the weather cools off make sure to eat fewer cold and raw foods and instead eat more warm, cooked foods. So skip the cold smoothie but embrace the warm oatmeal with cooked fruits and nuts for breakfast. Instead of that raw salad, try a light sauté of veggies with whole grains, beans, or lentils. Help support healthy digestion with warming foods, you will see the difference. (We can get away with eating colder foods in the summer when temperatures are high, but not during this time of year and through the winter months, cold foods will impair the digestion.)
4.
Stay Hydrated!
It is vital that the Lungs and Large Intestine stay moist to function properly, so staying hydrated with water is essential. Most people are already in the habit of staying hydrated from the hot summer months so keep that up! Hydration is super important in the fall (and always). Remember, without proper hydration the skin, which is controlled by the lungs, can become dry and cracked and the large intestine needs proper hydration to be able to function properly as well. So don’t forget to drink lots of water during the fall. Try adding some electrolytes into the water or a pinch of Himalayan salt to increase absorption.
5.
Take your herbs.
Herbs can play a huge roll in staying healthy in the fall (and always). There are formulas to boost lung function and to support gut functions, which support a healthy immune system. Don't forget 70% of your immune system is in the gut, so we want to keep our microbiome healthy and happy!
Not sure of the best herbal formulas? No problem, we can help you find the best option for you.
6.
Let go!
Fall offers us the perfect time to let go of things which no longer serve us. This frees up any stagnant mental or emotional space we are using so we have room to fully embrace feelings of clarity, relaxation, release, focus, happiness, and flow. We all need more of these things!!
7.
Get some acupuncture.
Acupuncture is a fabulous way to boost the immune system, reduce stress and fight off pathogens. Regular wellness visits are a great idea for the fall (and always). There are so many wonderful points that can be used to boost immunity and fight off colds, a few of them are below. Make sure to schedule in self care for you to ensure you stay healthy this season.
Here are a few acupuncture points that help support healthy Lung and Large Intestine function against pathogens, great for the fall season. Rub each point (both sides of body) in a circular motion for about 20 to 30 seconds a few times a day for best results. In order below from left to right: (1) Large Intestine 20 (2) Lung 7 (3) Lung 1 (4) Large Intestine 4
I hope this info helps you support your lungs and large intestines!
Have a wonderful Fall season!
If you need further assistance make sure to contact us at the clinic.
DeBritt