Autumn Immunity: Armed & Ready for the Season

Autumn is a season of transition, not just in nature, but in our bodies, too. According to the Five Element theory of Chinese Medicine, autumn belongs to the metal element, which symbolizes structure, clarity, and boundaries. It’s the perfect time to reinforce our defenses and strengthen immunity as the weather cools and we prepare for winter.

Organs of the Season: Lungs & Large Intestine

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Lung and Large Intestine are the organ pair associated with the metal element and autumn season. Together, they form a protective layer against external pathogens that often enter through the respiratory and digestive systems.

• The Lungs regulate qi (vital energy) and generate Wei Qi, the body’s protective shield—similar to the immune system in Western medicine. The Lungs also govern the skin, our largest and most outward-facing organ. They regulate sweating and the opening/closing of pores, helping the body expel toxins and ward off illness.
  👉 Read our last blog post to learn how to take care of your lungs this fall.
  
  

• The Large Intestine is paired with the Lungs. In Western medicine, its microbiome is crucial for immune defense. In TCM, its function centers on elimination, releasing waste and toxins to prevent sluggishness and self-toxicity. Symbolically, the Large Intestine also helps us “let go,” both physically and emotionally.
  
  

The Emotion of Autumn: Grief

Autumn is also a season of letting go. Just as trees release their leaves, we are invited to release excess, unprocessed emotions. Grief and sadness are associated with the Lung, and during this time, unhealed loss or sorrow may resurface. By honoring and releasing grief with compassion, we support both emotional and physical balance.

Immune Support Tips for Autumn

To stay strong this season, bring the body into balance with its environment and support the Lung and Large Intestine functions.

• Breathwork: Practice slow, deep, intentional breathing to cultivate qi and oxygen.
  
  

• Gentle Exercise: Movement strengthens Lung function and encourages healthy sweating.
  
  

• Dry Brushing: Clear pores and support the skin’s natural defenses before bathing.
  
  

• Sleep: Align with nature’s rhythms by going to bed earlier as days shorten.
  
  

• Seasonal Diet: Avoid cold, damp, heavy foods that create phlegm; favor warm, cooked meals, fiber-rich foods, nuts, and seeds.
  
  

• Stay Hydrated: Prevent dryness in the Lungs and Large Intestine.
  
  

• Probiotics: Enrich gut health with fermented foods or supplements.
  
  

• Process Grief: Make space for feelings of sadness or loss. Releasing them strengthens emotional and physical health.
  
  

• Chinese Herbs: Ginseng, astragalus, cordyceps, and schisandra can lift qi, nourish the Lungs, and support immunity.
  
  

With mindful habits and integrative therapies like acupuncture and herbal medicine, you can enter autumn balanced, resilient, and ready for the colder months ahead.

👉 Ready to strengthen your defenses? Schedule an acupuncture or herbal consultation today.

Disclaimer: This article contains general information about health topics and it is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. If you have any questions related to your condition you should contact your doctor or healthcare provider. If you think you may be suffering from any medical condition, you should seek immediate medical attention.