Season of the Lungs

In Chinese medicine, each season is linked to a specific organ system, and autumn belongs to the Lungs. This is the time of year when the weather shifts dramatically, trees release their leaves, and the air begins to carry a chill. For many people, it’s also when vulnerability to illness increases. Hence why it’s often called “flu season.”

The Delicate Protective Organ

The Lungs are known as the “delicate protective organ” because they are the only internal organ directly exposed to the outside environment. Every breath we take brings us into contact with external influences, both nourishing and potentially harmful. This openness makes the Lungs more susceptible to seasonal challenges such as colds, flus, and allergies.

Lungs and Wei Qi

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Lungs play a central role in generating Wei Qi, which can be understood as the body’s defensive energy, similar to what Western medicine describes as the immune system. Wei Qi forms a protective barrier, circulating on the body’s surface to ward off external pathogens.

Healthy, well-functioning Lungs extract the “pure essence” from the air we breathe and combine it with nutrients from food to create this defensive energy. When strong, Wei Qi helps us stay resilient, vibrant, and resistant to seasonal illness. But when the Lungs are weakened, the body may not produce enough Wei Qi, leaving us prone to colds, flus, allergies, or other imbalances.

When the Lungs Weaken

Signs of Lung imbalance often show up in both the respiratory system and the skin. Frequent illness, asthma, persistent cough, eczema, dry skin, or lingering fatigue can all point toward weakened Lung and Wei Qi function. Emotional stress also plays a role. TCM connects the Lungs with the emotion of grief or sadness. When these feelings are unexpressed or unresolved, they may compromise Lung energy. Other factors such as poor diet, smoking, genetic constitution, or exposure to environmental toxins and pollution can also weaken this delicate organ system.

Nourishing the Lungs in Autumn

The Zhen Jing, an ancient classic text, reminds us: “If the lungs function well, it can activate the flow of Qi, and nourish the whole body with Wei Qi, as rain nourishes young crops.” This beautifully illustrates how essential proper Lung function is, not just for breathing, but for overall health and vitality.

To support the Lungs during autumn, it’s helpful to:

• Breathe deeply and practice gentle breathwork.

• Eat seasonal foods like pears, apples, root vegetables, and warming spices.

• Allow space for processing grief or sadness.

• Use supportive therapies such as acupuncture and herbal medicine to strengthen Wei Qi and prevent seasonal illness.
  
  

By caring for the Lungs during their seasonal peak, we help the whole body remain balanced, resilient, and protected as the colder months approach.

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.