The leaves are turning, the air is crisp, and life starts to feel a little different—autumn is here. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this season is tied to the Metal element, governing the Lungs and Large Intestine. These organs are responsible for letting go, reflection, and preparing the body for the quieter, restorative months of winter. Understanding how your body and mind respond to seasonal shifts can help you feel balanced, energized, and resilient.
Why Autumn Matters in TCM
Autumn is a season of reflection and release. The Lungs regulate Qi (pronounced “chee”), immunity, and respiration, while the Large Intestine helps your body eliminate what’s no longer needed—physically and emotionally. The Lungs are also associated with the emotion of grief, which doesn’t only refer to sadness but also letting go of habits, thoughts, or routines that no longer serve you.
During autumn, you may notice:
- Dry skin or lips
- Fatigue or low energy
- Stiff shoulders, tight chest, or shallow breathing
- Emotional sensitivity, irritability, or feeling “stuck”
Recognizing these signs is the first step in supporting your health through the seasonal shift.
Supporting You in the Clinic
At Soul Lux, I help clients align with the season through personalized acupuncture, cupping, gua sha, and sound therapy. Each session is tailored to your needs, whether that’s supporting immunity, releasing tension, or calming the nervous system.
Some of the acupuncture points I often use for autumn balance include:
- LU7 (Lieque): Strengthens Lung energy, boosts immunity, and aids emotional release
- LI4 (Hegu): Relieves tension, clears stagnation, and encourages letting go
- ST36 (Zusanli): Supports digestion and overall vitality
- SP6 (Sanyinjiao): Calms the mind, balances hormones, and grounds energy
Cupping and gua sha can further help release stagnation, improve circulation, and open the chest and shoulders.
We also incorporate sound therapy using tuning forks to support vibrational energy flow and deepen relaxation, leaving you calm, balanced, and ready to embrace the season.
Understanding Qi and Energy Flow
In TCM, Qi is the life force that flows through your body along pathways called meridians. When Qi flows freely, your body and mind function harmoniously. Seasonal changes, stress, or lifestyle factors can block this flow, leading to fatigue, tension, or emotional imbalance. Acupuncture, cupping, gua sha, and sound therapy help restore smooth Qi flow, supporting your body from the inside out.
Autumn Self-Care Practices
Even outside the clinic, simple practices can help you align with autumn:
Mindful Movement:
- Gentle stretches, yoga, or Tai Chi to open the chest and support Lung Qi
- Walking outdoors to circulate energy and breathe in fresh air
Nourishing Foods:
- Root vegetables: sweet potatoes, carrots, squash
- Seasonal fruits: pears, apples
- Warm grains: oatmeal, rice, millet
- Warming spices: ginger, cinnamon, cloves
- Favor warm beverages and cooked meals over cold drinks or raw foods
Emotional Release:
- Journaling to let go of thoughts or habits that no longer serve you
- Breathwork or meditation for 5–10 minutes a day
- Reflective practice: noting what you want to release and what you are grateful for
DIY Acupressure Tip:
- LU7 (Lieque): On the inside of your wrist, just above the thumb. Press gently for 1–2 minutes to support lung energy and calm anxiety.
- LI4 (Hegu): Between the thumb and index finger. Press gently for 1–2 minutes to relieve tension and encourage letting go.
A Simple Autumn Ritual to Try
- Morning Breath: Inhale slowly through your nose for 4 counts, exhale fully through your mouth for 6 counts. Repeat 3–5 times.
- Movement: Gentle stretches or a mindful walk.
- Nourishing Meal: Include a warm, seasonal dish—bonus points for soups with root vegetables.
- Evening Reflection: Write down one thing you’re ready to release and one thing you’re grateful for today.
Why This Works
By aligning your habits with the rhythms of the season, you support your nervous system, immune system, and overall vitality. Autumn is not about doing more—it’s about doing what your body and mind need to flow with the season.
Ready to Align With the Season?
If you’re noticing seasonal shifts in your body or mind—or simply want to support your energy, circulation, and emotional balance—a personalized autumn-focused session at Soul Lux can help. Through acupuncture, cupping, gua sha, and sound therapy, we work together to release tension, restore energy flow, and prepare your body and mind for the months ahead.
Book your session today and embrace the season with balance, clarity, and vitality.
