As the leaves begin to turn and the air takes on a crisp edge, we enter what Chinese medicine calls the Metal season. Just as nature sheds what it no longer needs, fall invites us to reflect, release, and strengthen our inner resilience. This seasonal transition is more than just a change in the weather—it’s an opportunity to align with the rhythms of nature and support our health in meaningful ways.
The Metal Element: Structure, Boundaries, and Breath
In Chinese medicine, Metal is associated with clarity, refinement, and letting go. Think of the way metal can be shaped into strong but elegant structures—it provides form and boundary. In the body, Metal corresponds to the Lungs and the Large Intestine, two systems that regulate both intake and release.
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The Lungs bring in fresh oxygen, help us process grief, and connect us with the rhythm of breath.
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The Large Intestine releases what we no longer need, making room for renewal.
When the Metal element is balanced, we feel a sense of integrity, strength, and openness. When it’s out of balance, we may notice stubbornness, difficulty letting go, sadness that lingers, or physical symptoms like coughs, dry skin, or digestive irregularities.
Emotional Themes of Fall: Grief and Release
Autumn often stirs up the energy of grief. Just as trees let go of their leaves, we may find ourselves facing the need to release old habits, outdated stories, or even relationships. This isn’t meant to be depressing—it’s the natural cycle of life, making space for new growth in the spring.
In my practice, I often see patients who feel heavier emotionally during this season. They describe it as a quiet sadness, a sense of nostalgia, or a difficulty moving on. By supporting the Lung and Large Intestine systems, acupuncture helps create room for healthy release and acceptance.
Common Health Concerns in Fall
The shift into cooler, dryer air can affect the body in predictable ways. You may notice:
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Respiratory issues: coughs, colds, or sinus congestion
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Dryness: chapped lips, dry skin, scratchy throat
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Digestive changes: constipation or sluggish digestion
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Emotional sensitivity: grief, low mood, or feeling “stuck”
The good news? Chinese medicine offers gentle, practical ways to navigate these seasonal challenges.
Tips to Support Yourself This Season
Here are a few simple practices to keep your Metal element strong and resilient this fall:
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Breathe deeply
Set aside even two minutes a day to focus on slow, intentional breaths. This nourishes the Lungs and calms the nervous system. -
Moisturize from within
Counter dryness with hydrating foods like pears, honey, sesame seeds, walnuts, and soups made with root vegetables. A drizzle of good-quality sesame or olive oil can also help. -
Simplify and declutter
Metal thrives on clarity. Whether it’s clearing out a drawer or releasing an old routine, creating space supports emotional and physical balance. -
Stay warm and protected
The Lungs are sensitive to wind and cold. Scarves are not just fashion accessories—they’re protective layers that keep you from catching seasonal bugs. -
Seek balance with acupuncture
Acupuncture can strengthen immunity, ease seasonal allergies, and support emotional health. Points like Lung 7 (Lieque) help release sadness, while Large Intestine 4 (Hegu) supports the letting-go process physically and emotionally.
Acupuncture for the Metal Season
This is an ideal time of year to schedule acupuncture. Treatments in the fall are like planting seeds for the winter ahead—fortifying your immune system, helping your body adapt to the shift in temperature, and making sure you enter the darker months with strength and balance.
Patients often tell me they leave their sessions breathing more freely, sleeping more soundly, and feeling emotionally lighter. That’s the Metal element in harmony.
Carrying the Metal Season With You
Fall is a season of both beauty and vulnerability. By tuning into the wisdom of the Metal element, we can honor the natural cycles of life: taking in what nourishes us, letting go of what we don’t need, and finding clarity in the process.
If you’re feeling the weight of the season—whether physically through colds and dryness, or emotionally through heaviness and grief—know that support is available. Acupuncture, mindful breathing, and small lifestyle shifts can make all the difference in helping you move through fall with resilience and grace.
If this resonates with you, I invite you to schedule a session at Lisa Meyerson Acupuncture in Evanston. Together, we can help your body and spirit feel grounded, nourished, and ready for the season ahead.
773-517-7187
www.lisameyerson.com
Book online: lisameyersonacupuncture.janeapp.com
Lisa Meyerson
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