Staying Healthy and Happy this Autumn
October 11, 2020

Get ready for the cold months ahead

The cooler days and longer nights of autumn have transitioned from the bright, busy days of summer. The natural world is getting ready for the cold months ahead and our bodies are adapting to the changing seasons.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) tells us that we are all part of the natural world and its rhythms. As the harvest season settles in, you may find yourself looking inward, reflecting on your life and preparing for the winter in your own way.

In TCM, each season corresponds to a specific Organ System. For example, during the autumn, the Lungs are at their most active point and are susceptible to both positive and negative influences. The Lungs, often referred to as “the delicate protective organ” because of their direct contact with the environment, perform the important function of extracting Qi (“vital energy”) from the air we breathe.

Another important function of the Lungs is to produce Wei Qi. Wei Qi is similar to the Western concept of the immune system and protects the body against harmful external factors. 

When the Lungs are strong and balanced, we’re generally able to stay healthy and avoid illness. However, if the Lungs are out of balance, we become more likely to suffer from conditions such as colds, flu, asthma, allergies and other respiratory concerns.

SUPPORT YOUR LUNGS THIS SEASON WITH THESE SELF-CARE TIPS:

WARM UP


Protect yourself against the wind and cold. Nourish your body by eating more warm, cooked foods.

COVER UP


Weather can change quickly this time of year.
Layering clothing or having an extra sweater will help keep your body warm and at the right temperature in order to stay healthy.

Have you ever noticed when you first start to catch a cold, you have a stiff neck followed by aches and pains and even fatigue? The back of your neck is vulnerable to Wind, and when your pores are open up, Wind can get into your body where it doesn’t belong thus causing your body to be more vulnerable to colds! Wearing a scarf can help prevent colds and keep you snug in the winter months.

FOCUS ON EMOTIONS


Try to let go of negative feelings such
as grief and sadness. These can strongly affect your body’s overall balance in this season, and those to come.

BREATHE DEEP


Try breathing exercises daily to keep the Lungs
healthy. I can recommend and teach you specific exercises and selfcare techniques in order to keep you functioning optimally.

SEEK PREVENTIVE CARE:


Schedule an appointment with me for a
“seasonal tune-up” that is designed to strengthen your Wei Qi and help you maintain balance throughout the seasons to come.
SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

Disclaimer: The information contained within this Blog is only used to educate and inform. This newsletter is not a substitute for the advice of a licensed and registered health care provider. Seek prompt attention for emergencies. Consult a health care provider for specific health concerns, and before starting a diet, cleanse or exercise routine.

SHARE WITH FRIENDS

By Rosemarie Allen February 4, 2026
Discover why arthritis & stiffness flare in the cold.
By Rosemarie Allen January 28, 2026
Join our free, guided 5-Day Local Wellness Challenge for Jacksonville residents.
By Rosemarie Allen January 21, 2026
Feeling sluggish? Learn how acupuncture, prenatal, and tuina massage at A Balanced You Acupuncture & Wellness Center can help!
always cold, poor circulation, cold hands and feet, Yang deficiency, TCM winter health, acupuncture
By Rosemarie Allen January 13, 2026
Always feeling cold? Discover the TCM reasons behind poor circulation & Yang deficiency.
By Rosemarie Allen January 6, 2026
Tired of failed resolutions? Try 5 sustainable, TCM-inspired habits from our clinic. Learn why warm breakfasts, after-meal walks, and sipping warm water can transform your energy.
By Rosemarie Allen December 17, 2025
Navigate the entire Winter Solstice period with TCM wisdom. Learn what your body needs before, on, and after this pivotal day to conserve energy, embrace renewal, and build vitality for the new year.
By Rosemarie Allen December 10, 2025
Jacksonville’s foggy, damp weather can affect more than the commute. Discover how TCM can help.
By Rosemarie Allen December 3, 2025
Feeling the post-Thanksgiving stress? Learn 3 natural tips from our Jacksonville wellness clinic to carry a thankful spirit into a calm, grounded December. Discover how acupuncture can help.
By Rosemarie Allen November 27, 2025
Holiday stress? Give peace instead. A wellness gift certificate from “A Balanced You” is the thoughtful answer to stress and burnout. Give balance.
By Rosemarie Allen November 19, 2025
Is the Florida cold making your joints stiff and achy? You're not imagining it! Discover how Jacksonville acupuncture and natural TCM remedies can ease your seasonal joint pain.