Embracing the Transition: Why Autumn is the Perfect Time for a Rebalance
We’ve had a long run of hot weather in Canberra this year but now summer seems to have finally yielded to autumn.
With every change of season, the environment around us transforms. The warmth and expansiveness of summer give way to cooler temperatures, shorter days, and an inward shift in energy. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the transition between seasons is a crucial time to focus on balance, as the body must adapt to changing environmental conditions. Autumn is the time to focus on strengthening immunity, clearing stagnation, and preparing for the colder months ahead.
The Impact of Seasonal Change on Health
Each season in TCM is linked to specific organs, emotions, and potential imbalances. During autumn, the Lungs take centre stage. The Lungs are known as the ‘masters of Qi’ (otherwise known as vital energy) and play a key role in respiration and immunity. The Large Intestine, paired with the Lungs, is responsible for elimination—both physically and emotionally.
As temperatures drop and the air becomes drier, the body becomes more vulnerable to imbalances, leading to:
• Respiratory Issues: Dry air and cooling temperatures can weaken Lung Qi, resulting in coughs, colds, sinus congestion, and even asthma flare-ups.
• Dry Skin and Mucous Membranes: The drying effect of autumn can cause itchy skin, chapped lips, and dry nasal passages, making the body more susceptible to infections.
• Digestive Disturbances: The Large Intestine plays a key role in detoxification. If it becomes sluggish, bloating, constipation, or irregular bowel movements may occur.
• Emotional Imbalances: Autumn is linked to the emotion of grief. If unresolved sadness. longing or emotional stagnation is present, it may feel more intense during this time.
How Chinese Medicine Supports Seasonal Balance
TCM teaches that prevention is the best medicine. By supporting the body during seasonal shifts, we can maintain resilience and avoid illness. A rebalancing treatment in autumn can help harmonize the body and prepare it for winter and lessen your chance of getting sick.
• Acupuncture: Acupuncture helps strengthen Lung Qi, boost immunity, and clear stagnation in the digestive system.
• Herbal Medicine: Herbs can do many things, take Astragalus for example, it is warming and can strengthen the immune system, while Licorice Root moistens dryness.
• Dietary Adjustments: Nourishing, warm foods like soups, stews, and root vegetables support digestion and immunity. Pears, honey, and white fungus (tremella) help moisten dryness in the Lungs.
• Breathwork and Movement: Gentle exercises like Qi Gong, Tai Chi, and deep breathing techniques strengthen Lung function and promote emotional stability.
Tune up time?
By being mindful of the rhythm of nature and addressing imbalances early, we can move into the cooler months with ease and wellbeing. A seasonal rebalancing treatment is not just about preventing illness, it’s about cultivating health, emotional harmony, and resilience.
