The Lung

Every second of every day, our lungs are in motion as they expand to take in oxygen and contract to expel carbon dioxide. This gas exchange is necessary for our bodies to function properly. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the lung is also responsible for healthy immune response, as well as the circulation of Qi and fluids throughout the body. 

The lungs are integral to our healthy immune defenses against invading pathogens. This is because the lungs are associated with our skin – our largest organ – and the boundary between our internal systems and the world around us. The lungs are also one of the clearest pathways for pathogens to entre our bodies, making it important that we keep our lungs strong and balanced. 

The lungs are also the storehouse for all fluids in the body and are in charge of circulating them through the constant motion of breathing. The ascending and descending motion of lung Qi is what allows regular movement of overall Qi through our bodies. When lung Qi is disrupted, it can manifest in a weak cough, shortness of breath, frequent colds, weak voice, daytime sweating, and fatigue. 

Much as air enters and exits the body through the lung, it is thought that our emotions do the same. Grief is the dominion of the lungs, as well as our capacity to let go and resolve both grief and sadness. If you find you are more prone to crying easily or are unable to process and let go of your grief and sadness, this is a sign of lung Qi dysregulation. 

Supporting the function and health of your lungs is the backbone of maintaining a healthy body and spirit. That’s why it’s important to care for your lungs all throughout the year, but especially during autumn. Taking in fresh air, and practicing breathing exercises will help you expand your lung capacity. The following are also things that can help you keep your lungs balanced and functioning optimally: 

• Clean your space. The act if clearing away clutter and getting rid of things you haven’t used in years will have you breathing easier. 
• Protect yourself from the elements. You can conserve lung energy by wearing a scarf and keeping as much skin covered as possible when venturing out into cold, windy, and damp weather. 
• Avoid cold foods and drinks. Consuming anything cold will introduce unnecessary cold and damp into your body that is damaging to your internal organs. 
• Incorporate foods like pickle radishes, turnips, parsnips, daikon, apples, pears, rice, and oats into your diet. 

What is Qi? 

Qi, pronounced “CHEE”, is the fundamental or vital life energy that circulates through your body. Qi is the central underlying principle in Traditional Chinese Medicine.