Honoring the Energetic Shift Into Autumn

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the movement of time is cyclical. Each season carries its own energetic qualities, and our well-being depends on our ability to harmonize with them. As we approach the transition from late summer into autumn, this shift is more than just a change in temperature or color — it’s a call to turn inward, to nourish, and to realign.

The Wisdom of Late Summer

Late summer is ruled by the Earth element, a time of grounding, centering, and digestion — both physical and emotional. The Spleen and Stomach, Earth’s organs, are responsible for transforming food into energy and distributing it through the body. When these organs are balanced, we feel nourished, calm, and focused. As Earth season begins to give way to Metal season, we are invited to carry that nourishment forward into a more reflective time.

The Arrival of Metal

Autumn belongs to the Metal element, which governs the Lungs and Large Intestine. Metal teaches us to discern, to let go, and to preserve what is essential. The trees begin to shed their leaves — a poetic reminder that release is part of renewal. This is a time to clear space, physically and emotionally, and to refine your inner structure.

The Lungs, in particular, are sensitive during this period. They govern the Wei Qi — your body’s defensive energy — and are the first line of protection against illness. Keeping your lungs strong and clear is vital as the air cools and the atmosphere begins to dry.

Common Energetic Shifts to Expect

• More introspection: As daylight wanes, we naturally begin to reflect more inwardly. This is a healthy and necessary energetic turn.
• Increased dryness: You might notice dry skin, throat, or sinuses. This is a hallmark of autumn and a signal to nourish fluids.
• Emotionally tender moments: The Lungs are associated with grief. You may feel waves of melancholy — acknowledge and honor them.

How to Prepare the Body and Spirit

1. Support Your Lungs

Inhale deeply and often. Breathe into your belly, filling your entire ribcage. Incorporate breathing exercises into your morning routine to strengthen your Lung Qi. Pears, white mushrooms, almonds, and honey are wonderful foods to moisten and protect the Lungs.

2. Establish Gentle Routines

As the Yang energy of summer fades, begin going to bed earlier and waking with the sun. Give yourself permission to slow down. Autumn calls for more structure — this is the season to revisit your rhythms and rituals.

3. Nourish with Warming, Moistening Foods

Begin shifting from raw, cooling summer meals to cooked, warm dishes. Think soups, stews, roasted vegetables, and gentle spices like ginger and cinnamon. Bone broth is an excellent tonic for the transitioning season.

4. Let Go of What No Longer Serves

Just as the trees shed their leaves, autumn is a powerful time to release. Reflect on what beliefs, habits, or obligations you’ve outgrown. Write them down. Burn them, compost them, or simply let them go with your breath. This creates space for new inspiration to arrive.

5. Guard Against Wind and Cold

In TCM, Wind is seen as a common external cause of illness, especially when it combines with Cold. As temperatures drop, keep your neck covered, especially on breezy days. Wear scarves and keep your feet warm.

Energetic Themes of Autumn

• Reflection – Pausing to examine what has been gained or lost during the more active months
• Refinement – Focusing energy on what truly matters
• Resilience – Strengthening your immunity before winter arrives

Closing Thoughts

In many ways, the seasonal transition into autumn invites a sacred pause. It reminds us to slow down, conserve, and prepare. It whispers to the deepest parts of our spirit that healing isn’t always about action — sometimes, it’s about making space. In the poetry of falling leaves and cooler air, we find clarity and stillness.

So take a moment this week to breathe deeply. Walk under the fading sun. Nourish your body and release what you no longer need. Autumn is coming, and with it, a chance to begin again with clear eyes and an open heart.

Be well and keep your scarf handy — the wind has stories to tell.

-Jake