09/12/2025
Acupuncture for the Seasonal Transition: Summer to Fall
As the seasons shift from summer’s warmth to autumn’s crisp air, many people notice changes in energy, immunity, and mood. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), seasonal transitions are key moments to rebalance the body. Acupuncture provides powerful support during this time, helping strengthen the Lung and Large Intestine meridians, boost immunity, and prevent seasonal illness.
The TCM View of Summer and Autumn
• Summer (Fire Element): Connected with the Heart and Small Intestine meridians, representing joy, circulation, and outward activity.
• Autumn (Metal Element): Linked with the Lung and Large Intestine meridians, governing immunity, boundary-setting, healthy elimination, and the process of letting go.
When the body transitions into fall, the Lung system becomes more vulnerable. This can lead to:
• Seasonal allergies (sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes)
• Colds, cough, and sinus congestion
• Skin conditions such as dryness or eczema
• Low energy or immune weakness
• Emotional imbalances, particularly grief or sadness
How Acupuncture Supports Fall Wellness
Regular acupuncture treatments during this season can:
• Strengthen Lung Qi to improve respiratory health and immunity
• Support the Large Intestine meridian to promote healthy elimination and detoxification
• Regulate Wei Qi (defensive energy) to reduce susceptibility to colds and flu
• Clear phlegm and dampness that contribute to congestion, allergies, and respiratory weakness
• Balance emotions by harmonizing the Lung meridian to process grief and enhance resilience
Key Acupuncture Points for Autumn Health
• LU 7 (Lieque): Boosts immune defense, releases the exterior, and strengthens Lung function
• LI 4 (Hegu): Opens the sinuses, relieves headaches, and regulates defensive Qi
• ST 36 (Zusanli): Tonifies Qi, strengthens digestion, and enhances overall vitality
• KI 27 (Shufu): Opens the chest, supports breathing, and benefits the Lungs
These points are commonly used to build immune strength, reduce seasonal allergy symptoms, and support respiratory health.
Fall Wellness Tips from TCM
In addition to acupuncture, small seasonal lifestyle shifts can make a big difference:
• Eat warming, moistening foods: soups, stews, root vegetables, squash, pears, ginger, and honey to support Lung Yin and prevent dryness.
• Limit raw and cold foods, which can weaken digestion and create dampness.
• Stay hydrated with warm teas and broths.
• Practice deep breathing exercises, Qi Gong, or yoga to strengthen the lungs.
• Get adequate rest and align your daily rhythm with the shorter daylight hours.
Acupuncture for Immunity and Seasonal Balance
Acupuncture is not only effective for seasonal allergy relief and cold prevention, but also for strengthening the body’s natural defenses year-round. By supporting the Lung and Large Intestine meridians, acupuncture treatments help you stay balanced through the autumn transition and enter the winter months with greater vitality.
About Shahrzad Taavoni:
I’ve been practicing acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine for over 18 years. My background includes a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a dual Master’s in Acupuncture and Herbology. I’m deeply committed to holistic healing and integrative approaches that honor the whole person. In addition to my clinical work, I’m a writer, artist, and lifelong student of the mind-body connection.
If you’re ready to take a natural, whole-person approach to your health, I invite you to schedule a consultation. I’d be honored to support you on your healing path.
Located at GBMC (Greater Baltimore Medical Centet), I offer a complimentary 15-minute phone consultations to discuss your needs.
Offering acupuncture in Towson and serving the surrounding areas, including Roland Park, Hampden, Charles Village, Parkville, Lutherville-Timonium, Pikesville, Carney, Hampton, as well as communities throughout Baltimore County and Baltimore City.
To schedule an appointment, call 443-982-6159 or visit www.acupunctureintowson.com for more information.
