Autumn Alignment: A TCM Guide to Thriving This Season
Aligning with Autumn
There’s something about autumn that feels like a reset. The air gets crisper, the days shorten, and nature reminds us that it’s time to slow down, ground ourselves, and let go of what no longer serves us.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), autumn is the season of the lungs and large intestine, linked to the metal element. Energetically, it’s all about release, reflection, and renewal. Just like trees shed their leaves, autumn invites us to clear out both physical and emotional clutter so we can move into winter restored and resilient.
Learn how you can align with the energy of autumn—through food, movement, mindset, and simple rituals—so you feel balanced, nourished, and deeply supported this season.
Eat to Nourish & Protect
TCM emphasizes eating in harmony with the season. In autumn, that means focusing on warming, grounding, and moistening foods that protect your lungs and strengthen immunity.
Pears, apples, persimmons – hydrating and soothing for dry lungs
Root vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, and beets – grounding and hearty
Daikon and white radish – support lung qi and digestion
Garlic, onions, ginger – warming and immune-boosting
Slow-cooked soups and stews – easier to digest, deeply nourishing
✨ Pro tip: Swap iced drinks and cold smoothies for warm teas, congee, or broth-based soups.
Sleep for the Season
The shorter days are nature’s invitation to slow down. TCM recommends syncing your rhythms with the season by honoring rest.
Aim for an earlier bedtime to replenish energy.
Create a wind-down ritual—herbal tea, light stretching, or journaling.
Limit screen time before bed to support deeper, more restorative sleep.
✨ Think of autumn as your body’s training ground for winter resilience. Rest now, thrive later.
Move with Breath in Mind
Since autumn corresponds to the lungs, your movement practice should emphasize breath and openness.
Try qigong or tai chi to gently expand the chest and move stagnant energy.
Incorporate breathwork into your day—something as simple as 5 minutes of deep, slow inhales and exhales can shift your mood.
Go for outdoor walks and let the crisp autumn air clear your mind.
✨ Think less “push harder” and more “move with ease.” This is a season for sustainable energy, not depletion.
Mindset: The Art of Letting Go
Autumn’s emotional energy is connected to grief, reflection, and release. This is a natural moment to check in with yourself: what are you holding onto that feels heavy? What can you let go of to create space for something new?
Journaling prompts: “What is no longer serving me?” or “What am I ready to release?”
Simple rituals: Write down a habit or thought you want to release, then safely burn the paper (or tear it up) as a symbolic gesture.
Gratitude practice: Balances heaviness with lightness by reminding you of what’s working.
✨ Letting go isn’t loss—it’s making space for the next version of you.
Stress and Immunity
Autumn often brings sniffles, colds, and stress. Supporting your immunity and calming your nervous system go hand in hand.
Acupressure: Try massaging the point between your thumb and index finger (LI4) to relieve tension.
Meditation or yoga: Even 10 minutes helps calm stress and balance energy.
Consistent routines: Autumn loves rhythm—regular meals, rest, and self-care rituals help stabilize both body and mind.
✨ Your strongest immunity often comes from the quiet power of consistency.
Embrace the Wisdom of Autumn
Autumn is nature’s reminder that release is part of growth. When we eat, move, and live in alignment with the season, we strengthen not only our physical health but also our capacity for reflection, gratitude, and renewal.
If you’d like to go deeper, join us for Autumn Alignment: Nourishing Body & Spirit with Traditional Chinese Medicine.
This is a live online workshop filled with practical tips, guided breathwork, and seasonal rituals to carry you through fall with balance and vitality.
✨ Bonus: All attendees receive a Seasonal Wellness Guide PDF with recipes, journaling prompts, and lifestyle tips to keep the energy of autumn alive in daily life.
