It's Autumn
It is autumn, or fall as we say here in the States. Like every other season, fall has its own unique set of directives with respect to Chinese medicine.
Fall's corresponding organ is the lungs. It is imperative that one takes particular care of the lungs throughout the season as it is cold and flu season. Before I studied Chinese medicine, I always thought this was just a coincidence. Now I get it. The lungs manifest in the nose. Of all of the organ manifestations listed in Chinese medicine, this one makes the most sense since the nose is a portal to the lungs. Its corresponding color is white and the flavor is pungent.
So, just how do you care for your lungs during this season? Here is my short, but effective list:
- Practice deep breathing exercises. Fall is a time for harvest, even with breath. In yoga, this is called pranayama. I recommend taking a class. Jeanne Heileman at Yogaworks is one of the best in Los Angeles.
- Pungent, white foods support lung health. Mushrooms, jicama, daikon radish, garlic, onions, white beans, pearl barley, pears, and asian pears are good choices.
- Strengthen your upper back and keep your chest open with yoga poses. Here are a few of my favorites: dhanurasana, urdhva mukha svanasana, and uttana shishosana.
- And, last but not least, and easier said than done, is to avoid sadness as sadness diminishes lung qi.
As always, I look forward to your questions and comments.
Thank you for reading.
Tamara ZumMallen
Posted by Tamara at 11/8/2010 2:12 PM 
Categories: uncategorized
Tags: Acupuncture Larchmont Tamara ZumMallen Healing Hands Holistic Medicine
Categories: uncategorized
Tags: Acupuncture Larchmont Tamara ZumMallen Healing Hands Holistic Medicine
Love it! As always, clear concise and full of wisdom! Thank you!
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