Autumn and Traditional Chinese Medicine

Autumn is a time when nature rids itself of what is no longer needed.  Leaves fall from the trees to compost and enrich the soil, ensuring that the upcoming spring will have the nutrients needed to flourish.  It is also a time to harvest the abundance that grew during the summer to store up for the winter.

According to traditional Chinese medicine, the season of autumn is a time to organize, work hard, and finish the projects you began in the spring and summer.  This is because autumn is associated with the metal energy, governing the mind, organization, setting and protecting boundaries, and order.  While the summer was spent in more external activities, the autumn is a time where we tend to be more introspective.  It is a time to contemplate our lives and prepare for the winter season ahead. 

Emotionally, autumn is associated with grief and sadness.  Therefore, it is important to let go of lingering negative emotions, which can impact health more strongly during this time.

Physically, autumn corresponds to the lungs, skin, and large intestine.  These organs are responsible for respiration, digestion, and elimination.  Common imbalances manifest as frequent colds and sinus infections, shortness of breath, dryness, skin issues, and constipation.

A beautiful aspect of traditional Chinese medicine is as a tool to live harmoniously with the seasons.  To fully enjoy and benefit from the energy of autumn, consider a traditional Chinese medicine treatment.

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