As the days grow shorter, the air becomes crisp, and nature begins to slow down, autumn invites us to turn inward, reflect, and release what no longer serves us.
In Chinese Medicine, autumn is governed by the Metal element, which is associated with the Lungs, Large Intestine, grief, reflection, and letting go. Just as the trees release their leaves, we are encouraged to release old patterns, emotions, and attachments to make room for the next season of life.
Autumn is also a time traditionally associated with remembrance, ancestral wisdom, and the connection between the physical and spiritual worlds.
Chinese Medicine believes the Po, or corporeal soul, resides in the Lungs. The Po connects us to our physical bodies, instincts, sensations, and the experience of grief. This makes autumn a particularly meaningful season to honor loved ones who have passed, reflect on our ancestral connections, and find peace in the natural cycles of life.
One way we love to support ourselves outside of Classical Acupuncture modalities, is through crystal/stone medicine. Stones are of the earth and are considered part of Herbal therapy. Here are three stones to incorporate into your autumn wellness practices.
1. Smoky Quartz: Grounding, Grief & Letting Go
Smoky quartz is associated with grounding, emotional release, and energetic protection. Its grounding nature complements the Metal element and the Po (corporeal soul), which connects us to our physical bodies and the experience of grief.
Ways to use smoky quartz:
- Acupressure: Gently massage Lung 7 (LU7), located on the thumb side of the forearm, approximately 1.5–2 finger-widths above the wrist crease, using a smooth, polished smoky quartz stone. This point is traditionally used to regulate Lung Qi and support the descending function of the Lungs.
- Wear it: Wear smoky quartz jewelry as a reminder to stay grounded and release emotional heaviness.
- Simple ritual: Hold smoky quartz while taking three slow breaths. With each exhale, visualize releasing something that no longer serves you.
Selenite: Purification, Clarity & Connection
Selenite’s luminous white color reflects the Metal element. Associated with purification, clarity, and spiritual connection, it encourages us to release emotional heaviness and create space for peace.
Ways to use selenite:
- Acupressure: Hold selenite in your fingers while using the stone to to gently massage along the Lung channel from Lung 1 (LU1), located on the upper chest below the collarbone, down the inner arm toward Lung 11 (LU11), located at the outer corner of the thumbnail. In Chinese medicine, this pathway is associated with the movement of Lung Qi and the Lungs’ role in respiration, grief, and emotional release. As you massage, take slow, comfortable breaths and visualize the selenite releasing physical and emotional tension with each exhale while moving along the channel.
- Wear it: Wear a polished selenite pendant as a reminder of clarity, peace, and emotional balance.
- Simple ritual: Place selenite beside a family photograph or meaningful keepsake. Spend a few moments honoring the wisdom and connections passed down through generations.
Black Obsidian: Protection, Boundaries & Reflection
Black obsidian is associated with energetic protection, grounding, and self-reflection. Its protective symbolism complements the Metal element’s themes of boundaries, discernment, and letting go.
Ways to use black obsidian:
- Acupressure: Using a smooth, polished black obsidian stone or your fingertip, gently massage Large Intestine 1 (LI1), located at the outer corner of the index fingernail on the thumb side. As the Jing-Well & Metal point of the Large Intestine channel, LI1 is traditionally used to restore the flow of Qi. Use light pressure for 30–60 seconds while focusing on releasing stagnant energy and establishing healthy boundaries.
- Wear it: Wear black obsidian jewelry as a reminder to maintain personal and energetic boundaries.
- Simple ritual: Hold black obsidian while reflecting on an old pattern or belief you’re ready to release. Ask yourself: What am I holding onto that no longer serves me?
Use gentle pressure for acupressure and avoid broken, sharp, or fragile stones.
Embracing the Wisdom of the Metal Element
In Chinese medicine, autumn is not simply a season of endings. It is a season of refinement, reflection, and transformation.
The Lungs invite us to take in what is essential, while the Large Intestine reminds us of the importance of letting go. Together, they reflect the natural rhythm of receiving and releasing.
The Metal element also teaches us that grief and gratitude can coexist. We can honor those who came before us, carry forward their wisdom, and still create space for new beginnings.
Whether you choose to wear a crystal, incorporate one into an acupressure practice, or simply keep one nearby as a reminder of your intentions, these stones can offer a meaningful way to connect with the energy of autumn.
This season, allow yourself to slow down, honor your roots, and remember that letting go is part of making room for growth.
Support Your Body Through the Seasons
Connect with Jersey Shore Acupuncture for personalized support rooted in Classical Chinese Medicine and the natural rhythms of your body.