Part One – The Lung Channel

As the vibrant energy of summer fades, Autumn invites us to slow down, breathe deeply, and turn inward. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this season corresponds to the Lung—the organ responsible for breath, boundaries, and letting go. Autumn is a dry and contracting season, symbolizing release and refinement. Just as trees shed their leaves, we are called to let go of what no longer serves us—emotionally, mentally, and physically. The Lung helps us do this with grace.

The Lung channel begins in the stomach region. It descends to connect with the Large Intestine, its paired organ. It returns upward, passing through the diaphragm to reach the Lung organ. From there, it moves up to the throat, then begins its external pathway on the chest near the front of the shoulder. The channel then travels down the arm, along the radial (thumb) side, through the elbow crease and wrist, ending at the thumb nail. An internal branch links to the index finger, forming a paired connection between the Lung and Large Intestine channels.

🌬️When the Lung is in Balance:

• Clear, deep breathing
• Healthy skin and strong immunity
• Emotional calm and the ability to “let things go”

• Good energy and focus

❌ When the Lung is Out of Balance:

• Cough, shortness of breath, or sinus congestion
• Dry skin or sore throat
• Sadness, grief, or feeling closed off

• Weakened immunity or frequent colds

💡 Ways to Support the Lung Channel:

• Practice deep breathing and gentle exercise like Qi Gong or walking outdoors.
• Use a humidifier and stay hydrated.
• Eat white and moistening foods (pear, radish, lotus root, honey).

• Allow yourself to process emotions and practice stillness.

✋ Key Acupressure Points for the Lung:

Try gentle pressure or massage on these points for 1–2 minutes each day:

Lung 1 (Zhong Fu – “Central Palace”)

• Location: On the upper chest, about one inch below the outer end of the collarbone.

• Benefits: Opens the chest, relieves coughing or shortness of breath, and helps release emotional heaviness or sadness.

Lung 7 (Lie Que – “Broken Sequence”)

• Location: On the inside of the wrist, about two finger-widths above the wrist crease, just above the thumb bone.

• Benefits: Strengthens the immune system, releases exterior wind (like colds), and supports emotional release and communication.

Lung 9 (Tai Yuan – “Great Abyss”)

• Location: At the wrist crease, on the thumb side, in the small hollow next to the artery.

• Benefits: Tonifies Lung Qi and Yin, supports blood circulation, and benefits the pulse and respiration.  

🌾 Summary

The Lung teaches us to breathe in inspiration and exhale what we no longer need. By supporting this channel in Autumn, we strengthen both body and spirit—preparing for the stillness of winter. Take a deep breath and allow the season to remind you: letting go creates space for renewal. 🍂

👉 Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll explore the Large Intestine Channel—Lung’s partner in autumn.

✨ Are you interested in getting more support for your heart channel with acupuncture? Healing Lotus Acupuncture proudly serves Minneapolis, Plymouth, Minnetonka, Maple Grove, Golden Valley, and other surrounding areas. Call us at 612-447-4002 to set up a FREE 15 minute consultation to see if acupuncture is right for you! Or contact us here.