Food can also affect lung energy, such as overeating, not enough fiber in your diet, too much dairy, processed food, alcohol, drugs, etc. The symptoms can be weight gain, bloated, diarrhea, shortness of breath, low energy, etc. Starting to take care of our digestive system in the Fall is a way to prevent weight gain, obesity, and emotional imbalance.
Here is suggested practice: small portions, partial vegetarian, high fiber diet, which means eat plenty of vegetables (all kinds), drink enough water, eat warm food such as crockpot food, and use spices in your food. Periodically fasting can help the body get rid of excess toxins and allow our digestive organs to rest once in a while. Among the spices they may be Tumeric, ginger, garlic, pepper, onion, hot pepper, cinnamon, cilantro, leek, basil, parsley, etc.
One of the six causes of disease in TCM is the “Wind.” In the Fall, there are more windy days. For example, dress warmly during season change, avoiding wind and cold can help to preserve Lung energy. Dress warm or prepare layers when outdoors for hiking or other events also helps maintain Lung energy.
I once had a debate with a friend about how we catch a cold. He insisted it is the virus, nothing else. I point out it is more than just a virus; it is necessary to maintain our immune system and not give the virus a chance to make us sick. Both of us were right, and both need consideration.
It is beneficial to keep a good schedule habit in the Fall: go to bed earlier and get up earlier. You have better energy for daily activities and work. Unfortunately, younger people are less likely to follow this principle. They may say, “I am tired,” but don’t know why.
The lung is associated with nose, skin; some people start with skin problems; some start with sinus problems, some are asthmatic or bowel issues. People with these kinds of issues should look into strengthening the lung energy through regular Qi Gong practice.
Fall is an excellent time to nurture our Lung energy and maintain a strong and balanced Lung energy. This is a great time to prevent Flu or Covid infection or helps to recovery much faster from the virus infection. The viruses are everywhere, and it is impossible to avoid. The only defense is our immune system. No matter how many times you had a vaccine shot, you may still be suffering even die if your immune system is poor.
Fall is an important time to start practicing Qi Gong, Tai Chi, Yoga, Meditation, and other gentle exercises. These exercises fit perfectly with the season of the Fall. You
can feel the difference in your strength, balance, attitude, emotion, and the joy of doing these exercises. I highly recommend you start Qi Gong or Tai Chi practice. We have in-person Qi Gong / Tai Chi classes and Zoom class, and Zoom training courses. The information can be found on the website: www.taichihealing.org
The heavy and fast exercises are good in spring and summer, but not fall season. If you do these exercises, I recommend you do it gently, not over exert. This helps to avoid injuries or cause harm to the body.
With a preventive approach, we find a way to live well by following the ancient wisdom of “Going with the Flow.” Everything has two sides: the Yin, and the Yang. Going with the flow, we realize the Yin changes to Yang, and the Yang changes to the Yin. Everything turns out to be better eventually.
Maintaining harmony and immunity comes from the diligent practice of keeping our inner balance, smooth Qi flow, and emotional stability.
If you have never experienced Qi Gong, here is a simple Qi Gong you can start your daily practice:
– Feet are at shoulder width.
– Slowly inhale, raise your arms in the front of the body above the head;
– Exhale slowly move palms down in the front of the body.
– Repeat this ten times.
Good luck with your practice of “Qi.”
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