Keeping Your Health Up As We Move Into Fall
BY DR. SARAH ALEMI – Eastern Roots Wellness
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the transition from late summer to fall is seen as a critical time for boosting the immune system and preparing for the colder months. Fall is associated with the metal element and the lungs, which are seen as the most vulnerable during this period. TCM focuses on harmonizing the body with the season and strengthening the Wei Qi (defensive energy), which is responsible for protecting the body from external pathogens.
Here are some TCM strategies to boost your immune system for the fall in Northern Virginia:
1. Support Lung and Large Intestine Health
In TCM, the lungs are associated with the fall season, and they play a key role in immune defense. Strengthening the Lungs and Large Intestine (the paired organ in the metal element) can improve your Wei Qi.
TCM Tips:
Stay warm and avoid exposure to cold, dry wind, which can weaken the lung Qi.
Breathing exercises like Qi Gong enhance lung function.
Acupressure points like LU7 (Lieque), which is located on the wrist, and CV 17, on the sternum between the chest muscles, strengthen lung energy. A gentle, but firm, pressure on these points for 30-second intervals can help ‘activate’ the points.
2. Eat Seasonal and Warming Foods
TCM recommends adjusting your diet to support internal balance as the weather cools. Fall is a time to eat foods that nourish the lungs and moisten the dryness often associated with this season.
Suggested foods:
Bone broth and soups to nourish the body.
Warming foods: ginger, garlic, cinnamon, and black pepper.
Moistening foods: pears, white mushrooms, almonds, tofu, and honey. These help counter the dryness of fall.
Root vegetables: sweet potatoes, carrots, and squash to strengthen the digestive system and Qi.
3. Herbal Support
In TCM, certain herbs are used to boost immunity and protect the body from seasonal pathogens.
Common TCM herbs for immune support:
- Astragalus (Huang Qi): Known to strengthen Wei Qi and prevent colds.
- Schisandra (Wu Wei Zi): Supports lung health and is often used to protect against respiratory infections.
- Cordyceps: Boosts energy and immune function, especially during transitions.
- Licorice root (Gan Cao): Often added to formulas for its harmonizing and detoxifying effects.
Consult a qualified TCM practitioner before using herbs to ensure they are suitable for your body type.
4. Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a core practice in TCM for balancing the body’s energy. Regular treatments during the fall can boost immunity, improve lung function, and prevent seasonal illnesses like colds and flu.
Key acupuncture points for immune support:
LU9 (Taiyuan): Nourishes the Lungs and protects against respiratory issues.
ST36 (Zusanli): Strengthens overall energy and immunity.
LI4 (Hegu): A point used to boost the body’s defenses.
5. Stay Hydrated and Manage Stress
Hydration is crucial in the fall to combat the dryness of the season. This may mean the use of a humidifier in addition to keeping your water intake up. Additionally, TCM places a strong emphasis on balancing emotions to maintain good health.
TCM practices for stress management:
Gentle exercises like Tai Chi or Qi Gong promote energy flow and reduce stress.
Meditation and mindfulness to calm the mind and regulate emotions.
6. Rest and Sleep
TCM emphasizes the importance of rest, especially as the days shorten in the fall. Ensuring you get adequate sleep helps the body restore and defend against illness.
In Northern Virginia, the climate can vary from cool and dry to damp. Adapting these principles to your local environment means paying attention to both the external conditions and your own body’s needs.
