The Lungs are called the 'Canopy' organ — they sit highest in the chest and govern Qi and respiration. They take in clean air (Da Qi) and combine it with food essence from the Spleen to create Zong Qi (Chest Qi), which powers breathing and voice. The Lungs also disperse Wei Qi (Defensive Qi) to the skin surface, creating your immune shield against pathogens.
Shortness of breath, weak voice, reluctance to speak, frequent sighing, catching colds easily (weak Wei Qi), spontaneous sweating (pores not closing properly), pale complexion, allergic rhinitis, asthma, dry cough, weak immunity, feeling sad or grief-stricken (Lung emotion).
1. Deep breathing: Practice abdominal breathing 10 minutes daily. 2. Exercise regularly: Swimming, running, hiking — all strengthen Lungs. 3. Protect from cold: Wear scarf, protect neck from wind. 4. Stop smoking: Completely devastating to Lung Yin and Qi. 5. Avoid air conditioning blowing directly. 6. Sing or chant: Uses Lung energy, strengthens breath. 7. Practice Qigong: Especially 'Eight Brocade' exercises for Lungs.
Pears: Moistens Lungs, stops cough. Lotus root: Clears Lung Heat. White mushrooms: Nourish Lung Yin. Almonds: Stop cough, transform Phlegm. Honey: Moistens Lungs. Lily bulb (Bai He): Nourishes Lung Yin. Ginger: Fresh ginger warms Lungs and stops cough. Garlic: Antibacterial, enters Lung meridian. Walnut: Strengthens Kidney, supports Lung function (Kidney and Lungs are connected in TCM).
LU7 (Lieque): 'Broken Sequence' — the #1 point for Lung issues. Strengthens Lung Qi, releases exterior pathogens. LU9 (Taiyuan): Source point of Lungs — tonifies Lung Qi. ST36 (Zusanli): Strengthens overall Qi, supports Lungs. BL12 (Fengmen): 'Wind Gate' — protects against cold invasion. BL13 (Feishu): Lung Back-Shu — strengthens respiratory function. CV17 (Shanzhong): 'Chest Center' — regulates Lung Qi.
Autumn is Lung season (Metal element). During this time: 1. Eat more pears, lotus root, white foods. 2. Practice deep breathing outdoors in clean air. 3. Keep neck covered. 4. Get extra sleep (nights lengthen). 5. Let go of grief — the Lung's emotion. 6. Drink ginger tea with honey. 7. Avoid dry environments — use humidifier. The Lungs are the first organ attacked by external pathogens, so keeping them strong year-round is essential for immunity.
SEASONS provides seasonal Lung support protocols and immune-strengthening guidance.