Autumn Equinox

The Autumn Equinox is the second point of balance in the solar year, where day and night are of equal length. This day divides the autumn season into two equal parts. From this point forward, Yin energy will surpass Yang energy, leading to shorter days, longer nights, and progressively colder weather. In human health, this is a pivotal moment to transition our energy from the active outward states of spring and summer to the quiet, inward focus of autumn and winter.

As the Metal element matures, the Lungs and Large Intestine remain the primary focus. The main challenge during the Autumn Equinox is balancing the body’s internal dryness and defending against the rising cold. Because the external environment is cooling down, using cold air conditioning can shock the Lungs and damage the protective Wei Qi. Similarly, over-exhausting yourself through intense work or excessive exercise depletes the body’s Qi at a time when nature is prompting us to harvest and store energy.

Aligning with this equinox involves protecting the Lungs and preserving energy. Practicing chest-opening exercises helps expand the chest, encouraging deep breathing and clearing emotional tension or grief. Eating lotus seeds helps nourish the Spleen and calm the mind, promoting restful sleep. Drinking aged white tea is highly beneficial, as its smooth, mild nature moistens the throat, clears dry heat, and supports the Lungs’ natural descending function.