The Autumn Equinox marks the midpoint of fall — a seasonal gateway when nature shifts from heat to coolness, from dampness to dryness. It’s also a time when the human body enters a phase of conservation and nourishment. Proper care during this period helps store energy and build resilience for the coming winter.

Nature’s Wisdom: The “Three Phases” of the Autumn Equinox

In ancient Chinese tradition, the Autumn Equinox is divided into three natural signs, known as “San Hou” (Three Phases), each reflecting subtle shifts in the environment:

1. Thunder Retreats (雷始收声)

Thunder fades away — a symbol of declining Yang energy.

2. Insects Seal Their Burrows (蛰虫坯户)

Creatures begin to hibernate, preparing for winter storage.

3. Water Begins to Dry (水始涸)

Lakes and rivers shrink, and the air becomes drier.

These seasonal cues remind us:

Fall is the season of gathering and inner nourishment, favoring calm over agitation, moisture over dryness.

Nourishment Tips: Moistening the Lungs and Preventing Dryness

Dry air during this time can easily affect the lungs — the most sensitive organ in autumn according to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). The key dietary principles: moisturize, nourish, and soften.

Recommended Foods

• To moisten lungs & soothe cough:
  Snow pear with white fungus soup, lily & lotus seed porridge
• To nourish Yin & relieve dryness:
  Honey water, black sesame paste, Chinese yam porridge
• To aid bowel movement:
  Apples, bananas, grapes, sugarcane

Stick to warm, soft, and easy-to-digest foods. Avoid overly spicy, greasy, or dry ingredients.

Daily Habits: Aligning Your Lifestyle with the Season

After the Autumn Equinox, daylight shortens and Yang energy begins to retreat. Adjust your routine accordingly:

• Sleep early to nourish Yin and restore energy depleted over summer
• Wake early to open the lungs and promote Qi and blood circulation
• Practice moderate “autumn freezing”: allow some cool exposure to build cold resistance, but keep warm in mornings and evenings to avoid catching cold

Emotional Wellness: Calm the Mind and Keep Spirits Bright

Autumn belongs to the Metal element in TCM, which governs descent and contraction. This can lead to melancholy or low moods. Emotional care is crucial during this season.

What You Can Do:

• Maintain inner peace and connect with loved ones
• Spend time outdoors: take a walk, go hiking, enjoy distant views — all at a gentle pace
• Practice deep breathing: extend your exhale to support lung function and emotional release