“Everything that appears in the physical realm is always connected with energy flow at the invisible level.” - Nan Lu
Lung/Large Intestine Health
What is the importance of the Lung to one’s health?
The Lung’s major functions include maintaining healthy immune defenses against pathogens, as well as circulating Qi and fluids throughout the body.
Emotionally and physically, the Lung (along with its organ partner, the Large Intestine), is responsible for helping you “let go” of whatever you don’t need, from life experiences to emotions to actual metabolic by-products.
- Autumn is the season associated with the Lung and its partner, the Large Intestine. If you tend to catch colds or have allergies in the Fall, it’s important to take care of these organs!
- The nose is the sensory organ related to the Lung. Runny nose, sneezing, congested sinuses, loss of smell, are all symptoms of compromised Lung function.
- The skin is the tissue associated with the Lung. If you want to have healthy, clear, wrinkle-free skin, it’s important to take care of the Lung and the Large Intestine!
- The taste that corresponds to and supports the Lung is spicy, according to Five Element theory.
- Sadness and grief are the emotions associated with the Lung and Large Intestine. If you cry easily or have trouble processing grief and loss, you may have an imbalance in your Lung energy.
Foods to Support Lung Health
Many foods have an essence that supports the Lung and its partner, the Large Intestine, especially spicy, white foods. An acupuncturist might regularly prescribe these foods for patients when trying to build strong Lung function.
Simple Tips for Everyday Lung Health
Some ways to take care of your Lung:
- Let go of things you no longer need and give yourself breathing room! Stimulate your Lung function by throwing out those twenty-year old clothes or notebooks from fifth grade.
- Bundle up in windy and cold weather, especially your chest and neck. Because part of the Lung’s job is to protect you from pathogens, you can save Lung energy by covering up your skin.
Qigong for Lung Health
Practice the most powerful Qigong movement from our popular wellness and weight loss program, “The Dragon Stands Between Heaven and Earth”.
Standing with feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent, raise your arms to chest level, and make two fists. Point your thumbs toward each other about six inches in front of you. Relax your arms and shoulders, but keep your hands at this height. Take a few deep breaths. Close your eyes, and imagine you are a dragon standing between Heaven and Earth.Hold this posture as long as you can. This not only strengthens Lung energy but also increases your overall energy levels in your body, giving you extra Qi for healing and living!
