🌀 Strengthen Your Defensive Qi This Autumn with TCM + Acupuncture
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), we don’t see ourselves as separate from nature — we are nature. Just like the trees shedding their leaves, we’re invited to slow down, let go, and adjust as the energy of autumn turns inward.
Autumn is the season of the lungs and large intestine, which are linked to breath, immunity, and release — both physical and emotional. It’s also the season of dryness, making the lungs especially vulnerable to illness and feelings of grief or sadness.
One key to staying healthy during this shift? Strengthening your Defensive Qi.
🛡️ What Is Defensive Qi?
Think of Defensive Qi (Wei Qi) as your body’s energetic immune system — a shield that protects you from external pathogens like wind, cold, and viruses.
🧬 What it does:
- Regulates your pores to keep out external “evils”
- Protects your lungs and skin
- Supports your body’s immune defenses
When Wei Qi is strong, you’re more resilient. When it’s weak, you’re more prone to seasonal colds, fatigue, and lingering illness — especially during autumn.
How Acupuncture Strengthens Wei Qi
Acupuncture is one of the most effective ways to support your immunity and help your body adjust during seasonal transitions.
Here’s how it helps:
âś… Balances Lung & Spleen Channels
The Lungs govern Defensive Qi, while the Spleen supports Qi production. Acupuncture keeps these systems strong and in harmony.
âś… Opens the Surface
Specific points help open your pores and expel pathogens before they take hold — like an energetic “sweep” of your body’s defense perimeter.
âś… Boosts Qi & Blood Circulation
Better flow means better immunity and faster recovery.
âś… Reduces Stress & Supports Rest
Poor sleep and chronic stress deplete Wei Qi. Acupuncture calms the nervous system and improves restorative rest.
âś… Seasonal Tune-Ups
Autumn is the perfect time for acupuncture. A few sessions now can help you stay healthy all season long.
🌿 Other Ways to Support Your Wei Qi
âś” Eat for the Season
- Swap raw foods for warm, cooked meals
- Enjoy soups, stews, and seasonal veggies like squash, sweet potatoes, and beets
- Apples and poached pears moisten the lungs
- Pungent foods (garlic, onion, ginger, horseradish) help break up mucus and support immunity
- Drink warm water or tea — avoid cold drinks
âś” Rest & Protect Your Body
- Get consistent sleep — it’s when Wei Qi regenerates
- Keep your neck and upper back warm with a scarf
- Dress in layers to guard against sudden cold or wind
âś” Herbal Support & Telehealth Available
TCM herbs can help strengthen immunity or support recovery if you feel under the weather. We also offer telehealth consultations and can ship herbs directly to you.