Boost Immunity and Mental Clarity

Lung 7 (LU7)

A key point for boosting lung function and treating respiratory issues like cough and sore throat. This point also supports the immune system.

Large Intestine (LI11)

Located at the elbow, this point helps regulate digestive health and clear heat from the body, helping with any inflammation or excess warmth.

Stomach 36 (ST36)

Known for boosting energy and immune function, this point is especially useful for digestion and strengthening the body’s defenses.

*Once the point is located you can use a finger to massage it in a gentle, circular motion. Oftentimes, this point can be slightly tender. To strengthen the lungs, it’s highly encouraged to pair this acupressure technique with breathwork. Do 2-3 rounds of breath through the nose using a long smooth inhale and making a point to find a slightly longer smooth exhale. 

Committing and letting go of old baggage and releasing whatever is holding you back can bring more awareness to your body by recognizing that our bodies need to heal from the inside out. 

Staying tuned with the seasons, such as the fall, will support your body, and it’s encouraged to have your acupuncture treatments to continue the progress we have made to prepare you for the seasons. Stopping visits may bring new or more symptoms. 

Welcome the crisp air of autumn. It’s easy to feel the shift not just in nature but within ourselves. The fall season, marked by cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours, encourages us to slow down, reflect, and bring balance to our lives. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), autumn is the season of the lungs and large intestine, organs vital for detoxifying the body and processing emotions. 

But what does that mean with autumn? It’s a time for letting go–just as the trees shed their leaves, we, too, can release what no longer serves us. Through acupuncture and intentional wellness practices, we can align our bodies with the rhythms of nature and set ourselves up for a season of renewal. 

Why Autumn Affects Our Health

As the air becomes drier and temperatures drop, our lungs and skin–both connected in TCM–can become more vulnerable to dryness and irritation. Common colds, allergies, and feelings of sadness or anxiety can peak during this season as well, due to the natural changes in the environment. 

Acupuncture helps restore balance by boosting the immune system and supporting the lungs and large intestine, helping you stay stronger and healthy through the season’s challenges.

How To Thrive This Fall

Autumn is a time of reflection and preparation. It’s a perfect time to strengthen your immune system and mental health. Here are some practical tips to help you stay in tune with the season: 

Nourish Your Lungs and Skin

The dry air can cause your skin to feel parched, and your respiratory system may be more prone to irritation. Many people will experience dry throat, coughing, and increased congestion.

 Incorporate foods, and tips to protect the lungs/skin. 

• Pears, known for their ability to moisten the lungs
• White vegetables like cauliflower and turnips
• Ginger and cinnamon for warming and soothing the body 
• Drink warm teas to support lung health and stay hydrated 
• Moisturize since your skin will need it more in the fall
• Limit long showers and baths, since hot showers and long exposure to water can dry out your skin
• Use sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays

Strengthen Your Immune System

Autumn brings increased vulnerability to colds and respiratory issues. Regular acupuncture sessions can help boost your body’s defenses. Additionally, incorporate immune-boosting foods to help fight off seasonal illnesses.

• Garlic, onions, mushrooms
• Drink more warm liquids, put that ice frappe away, and stay away from iced drinks
• Incorporate red light therapy, which increases the production of white blood cells, the key role in fighting off viruses and infections
• Practice good hygiene practices, avoid touching your face and putting your fingers in your mouth
• Practice self-care routines to help reduce stress. Stress can release the hormone cortisol, which can suppress your immune system

Embrace Mindfulness and Let Go

Autumn is associated with the metal element in TCM, which is linked to the ability to process grief and let go. Often, people will experience feelings of sadness, nostalgia, or even depression as they transition away from the warmth and light of summer. Reflect on what’s no longer serving you–whether it’s habits, emotions, or relationships. Letting go of emotional clutter helps clear the way for new growth in the coming months. 

• Journaling or practicing mindfulness can aid in processing these emotions
• Meditation and deep breathing exercises help ease anxiety and cultivate presence
• Be more self-aware to help understand yourself better
• Enjoy life more, just like the simple things in life

Improving Digestive Health

The large intestine is closely connected to the lungs in TCM and plays a major role in digestion and detoxification. If the digestion isn’t regulated properly people will experience bloating, constipation, and sluggishness. 

• Hydration is key, coffee doesn’t count.
• Take probiotics
• Limit processed food intake
• Limit added sugars
• Get enough sleep because sleep helps regulate digestion as it repairs the body and rejuvenates the gut lining

Adjust Your Routine For The Season

As the days grow shorter, consider adjusting your daily routine to match the season change. Go to bed earlier, engage in gentle exercise like walking or yoga, and make time for self-care practices. Prioritizing restorative activities will support your body’s natural desire to rest and rejuvenate.

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Acupuncture, Red Light Therapy, The Perfect Pair

Acupuncture during the fall season focuses on balancing the energy in your lungs and large intestine, helping you breathe easier, process emotions, and improve digestion. Regular sessions can not only help prevent seasonal illness but also support your body’s transition into a slower, more reflective time of year.

In addition, doing red light therapy helps reduce inflammation, produce energy production in the cells, and enhance blood flow, which can have a positive ripple effect on the body’s systems. Red light therapy has many benefits and during the fall this is necessary to help activate serotonin which improves your mood and supports mental health.

Acupressure Points For Fall Health

Try these acupressure points that you can do at home that will help you during this time of the year.

Lung 7 (LU7)

A key point for boosting lung function and treating respiratory issues like cough and sore throat. This point also supports the immune system.

Large Intestine (LI11)

Located at the elbow, this point helps regulate digestive health and clear heat from the body, helping with any inflammation or excess warmth.

Stomach 36 (ST36)

Known for boosting energy and immune function, this point is especially useful for digestion and strengthening the body’s defenses.

*Once the point is located you can use a finger to massage it in a gentle, circular motion. Oftentimes, this point can be slightly tender. To strengthen the lungs, it’s highly encouraged to pair this acupressure technique with breathwork. Do 2-3 rounds of breath through the nose using a long smooth inhale and making a point to find a slightly longer smooth exhale. 

Committing and letting go of old baggage and releasing whatever is holding you back can bring more awareness to your body by recognizing that our bodies need to heal from the inside out. 

Staying tuned with the seasons, such as the fall, will support your body, and it’s encouraged to have your acupuncture treatments to continue the progress we have made to prepare you for the seasons. Stopping visits may bring new or more symptoms.