🍂 Boost Immunity and Embrace Autumn, Naturally

Written By Amelia Done

As the vibrant colours of autumn begin to appear, we are reminded that nature is in constant transition and so are we. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the change of season is not just about weather, but also a shift in energy, emotions and how we care for our bodies.

Autumn is associated with the Metal Element and the organs of the Lungs and Large Intestine. It is a time of letting go- both physically and emotionally, while also gathering strength and nourishment for the winter months ahead.

🍂 The Energy of Autumn in Traditional Chinese Medicine

In TCM, autumn is a time of consolidation. The expansive, outward energy of summer begins to turn inward. It's a period of reflection, structure and organization.

  • Lungs govern respiration and are seen as easily affected by cold and dryness.

  • Large Intestine plays a key role in elimination, not only physically, but metaphorically helping us release what no longer serves us.

When these organs are in balance we feel inspired, clear-headed and ready to embrace change. When out of balance, we may experience coughs, dry skin, constipation or even sadness and grief.

🍂 Common Autumn Imbalances & How to Support Yourself

As the air cools and dries, certain health concerns become more common:

  • Dry coughs, sore throat and nasal congestion

  • Dry skin or lips

  • Digestive irregularities (constipation or sluggish bowels)

  • Emotional sensitivity, grief or melancholy

🍂 TCM Tips for a Healthy Autumn:

✅ Support the Lungs:
Breathe deeply and consciously- try breathing exercises or gentle qi gong in the crisp autumn air. Avoid excessive exposure to cold, especially around the neck and upper chest.

✅ Moisturise from within:
Eat foods that nourish Lung Yin and counter dryness, such as:

  • Pears (especially steamed with a bit of honey)

  • Pumpkin and root vegetables

  • Walnuts, sesame seeds and almonds

  • Soups and broths (especially with ginger or astragalus)

✅ Let go- literally and emotionally:
Autumn encourages us to release, which happens physically, through regular digestion and emotionally, through reflection or journaling. Ask yourself: What am I ready to release?

✅ Dress for the season:
Wrap up! In TCM, the neck is especially vulnerable to wind invasion (a common cause of colds), so scarves are your best friend this time of year.

✅ Consider a seasonal Acupuncture tune-up:
Many of my clientss find regular seasonal treatments help them stay balanced and boost immunity. Acupuncture can support the Lung and Large Intestine channels, ease transitions and help with seasonal emotional changes.

🍂 A Time for Graceful Transition

Autumn teaches us that letting go is not loss, rather it’s preparation. Just as the trees shed their leaves to conserve energy for winter, we too can benefit from simplifying, slowing down and honouring the shift.

If you’d like personalised support through this seasonal change or to boost your immunity and emotional wellbeing, click here to book in for a session. Acupuncture and TCM offer a gentle, powerful way to align your body and mind with the rhythm of the season.

Wishing you a grounded, vibrant and reflective autumn.

Amelia Done
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