Fall is a time of change. The air cools, the leaves turn beautiful shades of orange and gold, and everything feels a little slower and more reflective. In TCM, fall is the season that corresponds with the lungs and metal element and it’s all about nourishing your body, mind, and spirit as we transition from the warmth of summer into the colder months.

Here’s how to take care of yourself this fall in line with TCM wisdom.

The TCM Take on Fall

As the crispness of fall settles in, I can’t help but think about how this season calls for nurturing our lungs. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), fall is the time to nourish these important organs and keep our energy strong. Our lungs are our body’s first line of defense – they protect us from outside pathogens and help regulate our respiration. The Wei Qi, or our defensive energy, is tied to the lungs, and it’s essential for shielding us from colds and other illnesses.

With the cooler, drier air, our lungs become more vulnerable to imbalances. Dryness can creep in, or excess phlegm can build up, leading to coughs, congestion, and that nagging fatigue. I’ve learned that this is the perfect time to show our lungs some extra love. Beyond preventing sickness, it’s crucial to keep them hydrated and robust. Avoiding cold, dry air helps, and I consistently run a humidifier indoors for better air quality.

I also make a point to take deep breaths throughout the day – just simple, calming breaths. It clears any stagnation and reminds my body to stay grounded and calm. I love incorporating gentle movements, too. Qi Gong and Tai Chi are perfect for this time of year (as I learned from my dad) – they help keep the flow of energy going and keep my body in balance.

As fall rolls in, I notice how naturally our qi starts to condense, and our bodies begin conserving energy for the cooler months ahead. It’s a simple, natural shift from being more active to focusing on restoring our energy. During this time, I try to take extra care of myself – eating nourishing foods, getting enough rest, and supporting my immune system. It’s about preparing for winter, yes, but also about strengthening my body and finding balance as the season changes. It’s a gentle reminder to slow down, be more present, and take care of myself.

In TCM, fall is associated with the metal element, which is all about clarity, organization, and letting go. It’s like the trees shedding their leaves, encouraging us to release things that no longer serve us. This could be physical – like detoxing or clearing out excess moisture – or emotional, letting go of what might have built up over the busier summer months. It’s a time to reflect, clear the clutter, and make space for what truly matters. Since the lungs are also related to emotional well-being, particularly grief and sadness, fall is a great time to reflect on these emotions and work towards releasing any unresolved feelings. Supporting your lungs emotionally during this season can help ensure that you maintain a balanced, peaceful state of mind. Practices like journaling, meditation or simply spending time in nature can be incredibly nourishing for your spirit as you transition into the colder months.

Moistening Foods for the Lungs

In fall, your body needs warmth, moisture, and foods that support your lungs. Here are some foods to include in your meals to stay balanced during this season:

1. Pears – Known for their moistening properties, making them ideal for keeping the lungs hydrated and soothing dry skin and coughs. Steaming them with a touch of honey or rock sugar transforms them into a classic remedy for lung dryness and seasonal discomforts.

2. White Fungus (Tremella) – Known as the “yin booster,” this fungus is highly regarded for moisturizing the lungs and nourishing the skin.

3. Lotus Root – Great for soothing dryness and supporting lung health; it can be added to soups or stir-fries.

Warming and Grounding Foods

1. Pumpkin and Squash – These vegetables are grounding and support the digestive system, which is closely tied to lung health in TCM.

2. Sweet Potatoes – Rich in nutrients and naturally sweet, they provide warmth and help build energy (qi).

3. Root Vegetables – Carrots, turnips, and daikon radishes are great for grounding your energy and supporting digestion.

Foods to Strengthen the Immune System

1. Mushrooms – Varieties like shiitake, maitake, and reishi are excellent for boosting the immune system and nourishing qi.

2. Ginger – Adds a gentle warmth and supports digestion, helping to balance the cooler fall energy.

3. Cinnamon – A warming spice that’s great for circulation and keeping your body cozy as temperatures drop.

Hydrating Foods

1. Soups and Broths – Simple bone broths, miso soup, or vegetable soups help warm and hydrate the body.

2. Congee (Rice Porridge) – A soothing, easy-to-digest dish often cooked with seasonal ingredients like pumpkin or dates for added nourishment.

Foods Rich in Yin-Nourishing Properties

1. Black Sesame Seeds – Known for their yin-supporting qualities, they can help maintain moisture in the body and nourish the lungs.

2. Walnuts – Not only good for lung health but also for supporting kidney energy, which begins to play a more prominent role as we move toward winter.

3. Seaweed – Moisturizes the body and supports the lungs, making it a great addition to soups or salads.

Herbal Teas and Drinks

1. Chrysanthemum Tea – Cooling and hydrating, this tea is great for soothing the lungs.

2. Licorice Root Tea – Often used in TCM for its lung-nourishing and soothing properties.

3. Ginger and Red Date Tea – A warming drink that supports digestion and boosts energy.

These foods are perfect for fall because they balance the season’s cooler, drier energy while preparing your body for the winter months ahead. You can mix and match these ingredients in soups, stews, and other comforting dishes to create meals that are as delicious as they are nourishing!

What to Avoid in Fall

Just as fall is a time for letting go, it’s also a good season to cut back on cold and raw foods, which can weaken the digestive system in cooler weather. Salads, iced drinks, and cold foods might leave you feeling sluggish or bloated. Instead, focus on cooked foods, soups, and stews that warm the body and make digestion easier.

Fall encourages slowing down, so make sure you’re getting enough rest. It’s a time to nourish your body, reflect, and prepare for the colder months ahead. By eating the right foods, staying hydrated, and taking care of your emotional health, you can embrace this season of transition with balance and energy.