NOVEMBER is the month of our lungs.

This fragile organ is more vulnerable and at risk in November. It is the main organ that controls the movement and exchange of Qi energy throughout the body - the lungs support, replenish and regulate the energy of all the internal organs and thus the whole body.

The lungs are the birthplace of the body's energy, which is created by mixing the pure energy taken in from the air with the essence created by digesting food in the Spleen, and the Spleen energy transports the essence up into the lungs. The place where the essences and the energy mix is in the middle of the chest and the so-called warp energy is created. From the source of its origin, the warp energy ascends first to the larynx and by this route participates in the respiratory activity of the lungs, and the second route leads to the aorta and the bloodstream and becomes a force promoting the movement of the blood and at the same time an essence replenishing the blood. This energy is diffused throughout the body, thus nourishing it, warming it and bringing ever new energy to all the organs.

Thus the lungs, by breathing, regulate the whole mechanism of energy action in the human body. This mechanism is manifested by the upward, downward, inward and outward movement of energy. Regular inhalation and exhalation distributes fresh energy in the body and expels the old and worn out energy out of it. Breathing and energy management are two interdependent functions. For example, if for some reason breathing becomes weak, the production and transport of energy in the body will also become weak and with it the production and transport of blood, fluids, nutrition, etc. Gradually, then, the consequences of the emptiness of energy will appear. Conversely, if there is an emptiness of energy from any cause, there will be a weakening of the breathing capacity and of the lungs.

What can you do for yourself?
It is advisable to be outdoors frequently, even if the weather is not favourable, and to ventilate as much as possible. Get in tune with nature as it slowly prepares for hibernation. Prefer to meditate and relax in a quiet, well-ventilated room and practice breathing exercises.

What to eat?
Since autumn brings dryness, enjoy moisturizing foods.
Vegetables: potatoes, squash, carrots, leafy greens, cabbage, zucchini, garlic, onions, radishes, daikon radish, watercress
Fruits: pears, apples, plums, dried apricots, lemon
Cereals: tears (Job's tears), rice (natural), groats, barley, oatmeal, spelt, quinoa
Spices and herbs: pepper, chilli, ginger, curry and masala spice mixes, chives, cloves, cardamom, cinnamon
Legumes: red beans, red lentils, soybeans

What not to eat?
Gluten-forming foods - lots of sugar, gluten from white milled wheat flour (white bread, various sauces), dairy products in general (especially yogurt, lots of cheese, chocolate).

What vital mushrooms have a positive effect on the lungs?
Chinese caterpillar has a tropism to the lungs and is excellent for strengthening the lung yin.

Even Glossy Cordgrass has a tropism to the lungs and can transform Tan (mucus).