The Medicine of Autumn: Letting Go and Finding Balance

As the bright energy of summer begins to fade and we move into the crisp air of fall, our bodies and minds undergo an important seasonal shift.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), fall is associated with the lungs and large intestine; the organs tied to both receiving and releasing. Just as the trees shed their leaves, we, too, are invited to let go of what no longer serves us, whether that’s old grief, unhealthy habits, or even clutter in our daily routines. This is a season of refinement, preparation, and making space for what’s to come.

On a physical level, you might notice your skin becoming drier, your immune system more sensitive, or your mood dipping as the days grow shorter. These are all signs that your body is adjusting to the season. Supporting lung health during this time is especially important, since the lungs govern our breath and our ability to take in life fully. Acupuncture treatments during fall help strengthen immunity, improve respiratory health, and ease the emotional process of letting go, leaving you more resilient as we move toward winter.

At home, you can nourish your body with warming teas. Try a cup of ginger and honey tea to support digestion and warm the body, or chrysanthemum tea to clear heat and support the lungs. A blend of licorice root and pear is also wonderful for soothing a dry throat and nourishing yin as the air becomes cooler and more drying.

For a little extra self-care, acupressure is a simple way to stay in balance between treatments. Two helpful points for fall include Lung 7 (Lieque), found just above the wrist on the thumb side, which helps boost lung energy, ease cough, and release sadness; and Large Intestine 4 (Hegu), located in the web between the thumb and index finger, which supports immunity and encourages healthy release, both physically and emotionally. Applying gentle, steady pressure to these points for a few minutes daily can help you align with the season’s natural rhythm of letting go.