9 Essential Autumn Lung Care Tips
Doctors’ Top 9 Autumn Practices: Secrets Only Shared with Close Friends and Family
In spring, it is most beneficial to nurture the liver; in summer, to care for the heart; in winter, to fortify the kidneys. But what should one cherish in autumn? Naturally, it is the lungs. How does one nurture the lungs? Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners, well-versed in the art of healthy living, embrace the following nine practices during the crisp and refreshing autumn—a collection of insights seldom disclosed except to close friends and family. Today, niniyucao reveals them all!
- The Lung and the Element of Metal:
In the Five Elements theory, the lung is associated with Metal. Accordingly, practitioners attune themselves to the nature of Metal, which is characterized by a sense of contraction and containment. Ancient strategies even employed the metaphor of “sound of metal” in retreats – “ringing the metal to call back the troops.” Conversely, when on the offensive, drums (representing Wood, and hence the liver’s vigorous energy) were beaten to rally spirits and embolden one’s inner resolve. Autumn, too, is governed by Metal, imbued with a brisk, austere energy akin to the formidable aura of a descending white tiger from the mountains. Thus, the lungs perform two essential roles: to disseminate the vital pure air that nourishes every pore, and to expel the body’s unwanted exhalations, ensuring the proper elimination of waste. - The Delicacy of the Lungs:
The lung is a delicate organ—tender as a cherished child. Much like a fragile blossom in a conservatory, it cannot withstand extreme cold, heat, or dryness. Excessive chill, heat, or aridity can provoke coughing. Therefore, to preserve lung health, one must avoid overly cold or excessively drying foods. In essence, caring for the lungs is all about maintaining proper moisture. - Nurturing Lung Qi through Breath:
The lungs govern the body’s vital Qi, especially the energy derived from breathing. Consider: How long could one survive without food, water, or, crucially, breath? Clearly, lung Qi is indispensable. When we speak of “Qi deficiency,” it often refers to insufficient lung Qi. Our essential energy, or “true Qi,” is composed of primordial Qi (stored in the kidneys, a gift from our parents), the Qi generated from our digestive process, and the Qi obtained through breathing. It is imperative to breathe fresh air—particularly during autumn when air quality may be compromised by smog. Many find that spending time in parks or forests leaves them feeling rejuvenated. In fact, niniyucao has observed that property prices in Dali tend to rise each autumn, as those with means seek refuge from polluted cities by purchasing holiday or retirement homes, pushing up local values. One friend even mentioned that a slight exertion brings on dizziness—a classic sign of lung Qi deficiency. A simple remedy? Practice breath retention exercises: inhale deeply, hold your breath as long as possible, and gradually extend the duration. Daily sessions of about half an hour can help unblock your meridians and revitalize your Qi. Unlike the shallow breathing common today, ancient practitioners cultivated deep, energy-rich breaths that could even reach the soles of one’s feet—a practice known as “reaching the heels.”
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Since the lungs govern the skin and hair, practitioners of traditional medicine not only use herbal facial masks but also adopt holistic measures to nurture the body from within. Radiant, supple skin is not achieved by merely applying myriad creams and masks, but by maintaining robust lung Qi. After all, while appearance is important, inner vitality is paramount. - The Nasal Connection:
The lung opens into the nose; thus, when nasal issues arise, experts prioritize nurturing the lungs rather than fixating solely on the nose. Those troubled by rhinitis should focus on restoring lung balance. It is important to note that the nature of nasal discharge—whether yellow or white—may signal different underlying conditions, and indiscriminate medication should be avoided. - The Color White and Lung Health:
Within the five colors, white corresponds to the lung. Hence, in autumn, practitioners often incorporate white foods that soothe and cleanse the lungs—such as pears, Chinese yam, white fungus, lily bulbs, and polygonatum—into their diets. - The Taste of Food:
In the realm of the five flavors, the lung aligns with the pungent (spicy) taste. However, in autumn, when the air is arid, consuming excessive pungent foods can exacerbate dryness. Instead, a modest amount of sour foods is recommended. Vinegar, for example, and various sour-sweet fruits, are favored—but always in moderation, in accordance with one’s digestive capacity. In contrast, a greater indulgence in pungent flavors is more suitable for summer or when the lungs are chilled. - Vocal Expression as Lung Exercise:
Among the five sounds, the lung is linked with the act of crying. Accordingly, practitioners employ recitation or singing to exercise and strengthen lung Qi. Observe how children cry with a clear, resonant voice without straining their throats—a testament to their robust lung energy. In adulthood, excessive speaking can diminish one’s voice, as overuse depletes lung Qi (and, by extension, may also affect kidney Qi). Whether at karaoke or in daily conversation, using proper vocal techniques can sustain lung vitality. Teachers and others who speak frequently might even benefit from carrying a small remedy like ginseng—either steeped in tea or kept on hand. - Emotional Balance and the Lung:
Among the five emotional states, the lung is associated with sorrow. Thus, in autumn, when many lament the season’s melancholy, true practitioners do not succumb to gloom. Instead, they proclaim that “autumn days surpass the freshness of spring mornings.” Although autumn naturally evokes a sense of sadness—a condition that can debilitate the lungs—one must guard against excessive melancholy. For instance, the tragic demise of Lin Daiyu, who succumbed to lung consumption, serves as a reminder of the perils of deep-seated sorrow. One friend even confessed that upon reading these writings, tears welled up uncontrollably during a WeChat conversation—a sign, perhaps, that her lung Qi had been severely compromised.
That concludes today’s discourse. In future writings, niniyucao will introduce a particular food, ideally suited for autumn, that not only fortifies lung Qi but also combats the season’s dryness. Stay tuned for more details.