The Autumnal Equinox signals a time of turning inward as daylight and warmth lessen.  Nature contracts and pulls in.  Leaves fall, and vegetables, fruit and flowers decompose fertilizing the soil.  The sap in trees descends to the roots, pulling the life energy of the tree down and inward to rest.  This is a natural time for us to rest as well.  Unfortunately, in our culture, resting is not highly valued.  Plus, the seasons in which we should naturally be resting, Autumn and  Winter, are filled with holidays and the busy-ness and expectations surrounding them.  I would encourage you to plan some time (if that's the only way it will happen!) to rest and reflect as the year starts to draw toward a close. 

In Chinese medicine, Autumn is associated with the Metal element, the organs of the Lung and Large intestine and the emotion of grief.  The Lung is responsible for inhaling the clear Qi (energy) from the air and exhaling the waste Qi from the interior of the body.  The Large Intestine also helps remove waste from the body.  The Lung also distributes the defensive Qi (Wei Qi) and body fluid, warming and moistening the skin and hair.   Imbalances of the Lung and/or Large Intestine energy may result in fatigue, weak respiration, shortness of breath, cough, runny nose, constipation or diarrhea, susceptibility to catching cold, edema and weak voice or hoarseness.  

This is also the time of year when things are dying back in nature and is often a time when old griefs resurface.  Paying attention to strengthening the Lung energy can help us deal with both the emotional and physical challenges the season may bring.