As Portland shifts from vibrant energy of summer into the crisp stillness of autumn, nature reminds us that change is not only natural — it’s necessary. In Chinese medicine, this seasonal transition marks a time to protect what’s vital, release what’s unnecessary, and build resilience for the months ahead. Just as the trees release their leaves, we are invited to shed what no longer serves us and prepare our bodies and minds for the stillness of winter.
For active individuals, athletes, and anyone recovering from the busyness of summer, aligning your habits with the rhythm of the season supports smoother transitions, stronger immunity, and steadier energy.
The Metal Element: Structure, Breath, and Boundaries
In the Five Element system, autumn corresponds with the Metal element, which governs the Lungs and Large Intestine.
Metal teaches us about structure and strength — in both the body and the mind. Physically, it supports posture, breath, and endurance. Mentally, it helps us clarify priorities, set boundaries, and let go of what no longer serves us.
The Lungs regulate breath, skin, and immune function.
The Large Intestine manages elimination — both physical and emotional.
When Metal energy is balanced, we feel clear, resilient, and disciplined. When it’s depleted, we may notice shallow breathing, tightness through the neck and chest, fatigue, sluggish digestion, or an undercurrent of grief. This is why autumn is a powerful time to reflect, declutter (your space, your schedule, your thoughts), and strengthen your boundaries.
Emotions of Autumn: Grief and Gratitude
Each season in Chinese medicine is linked with a set of emotions. For autumn, it’s grief — not as something to fear, but as a natural process of release. Allowing space for grief opens the heart to gratitude. You might notice memories surfacing or an urge to slow down — honor that. Practice journaling, spend time in nature, or simply breathe into the sensations that arise.
Seasonal Patterns We See in Clinic
As practitioners of both Chinese and sports medicine, we often see an increase in:
Upper body tension (especially neck, shoulders, and upper back)
Dry coughs, sinus congestion, or seasonal allergies
Constipation or irregular digestion
Low energy and post-training fatigue
Emotional overwhelm or difficulty letting go
These are signs the Lung and Large Intestine systems need extra care during this season.
How to Support Your Body This Autumn
1. Breathe With Intention
Take time to deepen your breath. The lungs thrive on expansion — and many of us spend the cooler months hunched forward.
Practice slow nasal breathing and longer exhales during walks or warm-ups.
Gentle Qi Gong or yoga flows that open the chest help circulate Lung Qi and prevent tightness.
Try finishing your workout with a few minutes of deep breathing instead of immediately jumping back into the day.
2. Nourish With Warmth and Moisture
Cool, dry weather taxes the lungs and digestion. Support your system with foods that moisten and warm:
Soups, congee, and slow-cooked meals with pear, apple, daikon, ginger, and miso.
Warming spices like cinnamon, clove, and cardamom to support circulation.
Herbal teas and broths instead of iced drinks or raw salads.
3. Strengthen the Wei Qi (Defensive Energy)
In Chinese medicine, the Lungs govern Wei Qi — the body’s first line of defense.
Regular acupuncture can enhance immune function and prevent colds.
Cupping and gua sha help release tension in the upper body and boost circulation.
Dress appropriately for Portland’s shifting weather — scarves aren’t just fashion, they’re functional defense!
4. Move With Mindfulness
Autumn invites refinement in training — less “go hard,” more “train smart.”
Focus on recovery work, mobility, and controlled strength.
Allow rest days. Overexertion during this time can deplete your reserves heading into winter.
5. Make Space for Emotional Health
Autumn is associated with the emotion of grief, but also with clarity and gratitude. Reflect on what you’ve learned this year and consciously let go of what you no longer need — whether that’s habits, expectations, or tension you’ve been holding in your body.
Integrating Seasonal Wisdom Into Modern Care
At Turning Pointe, our approach bridges ancient medicine and modern movement science. Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing chronic tension, or simply preparing your body for the cooler months, autumn is an ideal time for an acupuncture or bodywork session or seasonal tune-up and gentle yoga.
Together, we can help you strengthen your immune system, optimize recovery, and maintain balance through the seasonal transition.
Autumn is a time to breathe deeply, simplify, and refine.
Through mindful movement, nourishing foods, and the restorative tools of Chinese medicine, you can stay grounded, clear, and resilient — no matter what the season brings.
The Wisdom of Letting Go
Autumn reminds us that strength doesn’t always mean holding on. Sometimes it means allowing — letting what has ripened fall away, trusting that the emptiness creates space for new growth in spring.
So take a deep breath. Step outside. Feel the air move through your lungs. In this season of release and refinement, may you find clarity, grace, and gratitude in every breath.
