I'm learning about the meridians in Andrea Beaman's New Healer's Master Coaching program (https://andreabeaman.com/new-healers-master-coaching-program) and it's so interesting that I just need to share! Again, I'm NOT an expert in this stuff (I'm just learning and devouring content right now!), but if you're reading my blogs and noticing that the signs of imbalance ring true with you, I hope you'll take the time to reach out to an Acupuncturist, Herbalist, or a Doctor of Oriental Medicine/Doctor of East Asian Medicine for a more in-depth diagnosis and course of action.
OK, so with THAT disclaimer...here goes!
How do you know if the Lung/Large Intestines are out of balance?
You might remember from my last blog that L/LI imbalances can show up both physically and emotionally. Here are some of the most common signs of imbalance that might pop up:
Physical Symptoms:
- Allergies (food, mold, household chemicals, beauty products, trees/grasses, etc.)
- Sinus infections and sinus headaches
- Nasal congestion
- Cold/flu that lingers
- Respiratory Issues like asthma, persistent cough, shortness of breath, panting
- Sore Throat
- Toothaches
- Distension of, or a full sensation in the chest
- Belching/Burping
- Dry skin, lips, and nasal passages
- Nosebleeds
- Dry/Brittle hair and nails
- Itchy skin, rashes, eczema, psoriasis
- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
- Loose bowels and/or constipation (known to some as IBS)
- Pain or stiffness in the shoulders, arms or index fingers/frozen shoulder
Emotional Symptoms:
- Inability to let go
- Possessive of people or things
- Difficulty adapting to change--rigid thinking/stubborn
- Overly critical/judgemental/pessimistic outlook on life
- Obsessed with cleanliness OR conversely, being someone who accumulates junk and clutter (hoarding)
- Wallowing/Depression
Now don't panic!
Our organ systems fall in and out of balance all the time and there ARE ways to get back on track if you feel like you're out of balance. And getting back on track doesn't require removing organs or taking medications or heading off to an exorcist...sometimes it's just a matter of changing your diet and lifestyle! So let's keep it simple...
Here are some easy diet and lifestyle suggestions that might help bring balance back to the Lung/Large Intestine system:
Foods to Avoid:
- Dairy (cheese, yogurt, butter, kefir, milk, cream, etc.)--dairy causes congestion and mucus
- If you've got allergies/rashes/skin problems, ditch the common allergens--dairy, gluten, eggs, soy, citrus, peanuts, yeast
- Sugar (leads to poor intestinal health)
- Limit cold or raw foods (salads, frozen smoothies, iced drinks, fruit) if you tend to have internal coldness or cold hands, feet, or belly
- Alcohol--very dehydrating!
Foods to Include:
- Steamed, baked, sauteed, broiled and blanched veggies (Dark leafy winter greens especially--kale, chard, mustard greens, etc.)
- Light proteins (chicken/fish) in small quantities
- Seasonal sweet veggies like baked squash, beets, parsnips, and pumpkin can satisfy your sweet tooth!
- Warm broth/veggie based soups, porridge, and stews
- Gluten-free whole grains, beans, and lentils (soaked or sprouted for easier digestion)
- Garlic, onions, ginger, olives, horseradish, scallions, daikon radish, red radish
- Apples/pears in moderation
- Lemons/Limes
- Black pepper, chili, cardamom, cinnamon, cumin, turmeric nutmeg, ginger
- Herbal Teas
- 8-10 glasses of water each day (room temp or warm)
Lifestyle Practices to Include:
- Dry brushing the skin
- Exercise daily (Even walking counts! Extra points if you do it outside in nature!)
- Meditation
- Breathwork/Deep Breathing
- Acupressure
- QiGong
- Wear layers to avoid getting too hot or too cold
- Wear a scarf to protect the throat and lungs from wind
- Daily Journaling--write down all the things that bother you (let them go!) and then write down all the things that inspire you, make you feel grateful, or give you happiness
- Purge! Let go of the "old stuff" in your environment--clear out your cluttered closets and drawers, tidy up your workspace...and then donate unwanted items!
- Resolve past drama/trauma--address and release old pains or hurt feelings
- Forgive others and yourself
- Get plenty of sleep (try to get to bed before 11PM)
- NOTE: If you notice stagnation or a prolonged period of grief, sadness or depression, it may be necessary to consult with your physician and/or a mental health professional.
So what do you think? Are the suggestions doable?
Hope you find your balance this Autumn!
Sending hugs!
dorothy
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