As cooler air and shorter days settle in, autumn invites us to slow down, release what no longer serves us, and prepare for a season of renewal. In Chinese Medicine, autumn is connected with the Metal element and governed by the Lungs and Large Intestine- organs that help us take in nourishment and let go of what we don’t need.
Just as trees shed their leaves, this season encourages us to clear clutter- physical, emotional, or mental- to create space for fresh energy. Supporting your Lung Qi now can help you avoid seasonal sniffles, dry skin, and the low moods that sometimes come with darker days.
Staying Grounded During Back-to-School Season
September often feels like someone hit fast-forward: school routines, work deadlines, and after-school activities pile up quickly. To stay centered and balanced, try these autumn wellness tips rooted in Chinese Medicine:
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Start Warm – Begin mornings with warm lemon water or ginger tea to gently wake digestion.
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Pause to Breathe – Practice a 4-4-4 breath (inhale 4 counts, hold 4, exhale 4) whenever you need a mental reset.
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Mark Your Transitions – Light a candle, stretch, or take three deep breaths when shifting from work to home mode.
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Nourish Your Lungs – Eat moistening, white foods like pears, daikon radish, almonds, or a comforting bowl of rice congee.
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Plan for Wellness – An acupuncture tune-up can boost immunity, lift your mood, and support restful sleep before cold-and-flu season.
Seasonal Recipe: Miso-Roasted Delicata Squash & Kale Salad
A nourishing, immune-supporting recipe that’s grounding yet light- perfect for busy autumn evenings.
Ingredients
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2 small delicata squash, halved, seeded, and sliced into half-moons
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1 bunch lacinato kale, stems removed and torn into bite-sized pieces
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2 tbsp olive oil
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2 tbsp white or yellow miso paste
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1 tbsp maple syrup
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1 tbsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
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2 tbsp toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)
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Sea salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Whisk miso paste, maple syrup, and 1 tbsp olive oil. Toss squash slices in the mixture.
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Spread squash on a baking sheet, season lightly, and roast 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until tender and golden.
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Massage kale with remaining olive oil and vinegar until slightly wilted.
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Toss roasted squash with kale, top with pumpkin seeds, and serve warm or at room temperature.
Why It’s Beneficial (Chinese Medicine Perspective)
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Delicata squash gently warms and strengthens the Spleen and Stomach, grounding your energy during seasonal change.
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Kale clears lingering summer heat and supports gentle detox.
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Miso nourishes digestion and balances body fluids.
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Pumpkin seeds fortify Qi and add protein.
Together, these ingredients moisten dryness, boost immunity, and help your body transition smoothly into autumn.
Welcome the New Season with Intention
September is a natural reset point. If you’re feeling the rush of new schedules or simply craving balance, acupuncture can help your body and mind adjust smoothly.
👉 Book your autumn acupuncture tune-up online
Here’s to a season of clarity, vitality, and renewed energy!
In deepest gratitude and compassion,
Lisa
About the Author
Hi, I’m Lisa Jensen, a Licensed Acupuncturist in Winchester, MA with a passion for helping people find balance and healing through traditional Chinese medicine. With over 20 years of experience, I specialize in pain management and women’s health—fertility, pregnancy, and peri/menopause care, and believe in the power of natural healing to enhance overall well-being. When I’m not in the clinic, you can find me with my husband and 2 kids, enjoying hikes with my dog Ernie, or practicing meditation and yoga. I created this blog to share tips, insights, and the latest in holistic health practices to support your wellness journey.
Feel free to reach out—I’m always happy to connect and answer any questions you may have!