As the light softens and the air turns crisp, autumn gently calls us to slow down. The leaves fall, the days grow shorter, and just like nature, our bodies crave a shift — something softer, more introspective. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), autumn is linked to the Metal element, which governs the lungs and large intestine. These organs teach us something essential: how to receive what we need, and how to let go of what no longer serves us — both physically and emotionally.
The lungs are the heroes of this season. Through the breath, we nourish every cell in the body. But breath is also a tool for release — to let go of stress, grief, and the emotional clutter we may still be holding. The large intestine works alongside the lungs, helping us to clear space from the inside out. Autumn becomes an invitation to simplify, clear the path, and make room for what’s next.
To support this process, what we eat matters. The body wants to feel warm, grounded, and gently nourished. This isn’t the season for raw salads or cold smoothies. Instead, it’s time for steamed vegetables, soups, and earthy ingredients. Think root vegetables like carrots, turnips, and celeriac — they connect us to the ground and echo the season’s energy of turning inward. Add in warming spices like cinnamon, fennel, rosemary, and a hint of ginger to stimulate the lungs and soothe digestion. Just go easy on the chili or black pepper — too much heat can stir up restlessness or drain already depleted energy.
Try cooking baked apples or pears, the fruits of the season, ideal for calming the stomach and hydrating the lungs. Include legumes like Lima or Navy beans, which are both nourishing and moistening. And don’t forget a daily handful of fresh nuts — rich in energy, but best in moderation. If you tend to feel cold or sluggish, a slice of fresh ginger or a touch of garlic in your meals can help warm things up from within.
Autumn is a chance to come home to yourself. To breathe more deeply. To release, soften, and create space for what truly matters. Even the smallest seasonal adjustments — in food, rhythm, or mindset — can bring balance and ease into your everyday life.
If you’re ready to support your energy, body, and emotions during this seasonal transition, Qigong is one of the most effective tools. With gentle movement and breath, it strengthens the lungs, soothes the nervous system, and helps your whole being align with nature’s rhythm.
✨ Ready to move with the season instead of against it?
👉 Explore my live online Qigong classes to feel grounded, clear, and connected and aligned to the seasons: https://thebridgecenter.net/qi-gong-online-classes-2025-2026/
May each season guide you back to yourself.
If you are interested in Slow Living, self-care and improving your health with energy practices, subscribe to The Bridge Sunday Newsletter for weekly well-being insights.
You might also be interested in my book Take It Slow: The Slow Revolution for Deeper Connection and Mindful Living, available on Amazon.
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