When it comes to looking after your lungs, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has some simple, natural ways to keep them strong and healthy. Your lungs don’t just help you breathe; they’re also linked to your energy levels, immune system, and even how you feel emotionally. So, here’s a straightforward guide on how to care for your lungs using easy lifestyle tips, foods, and techniques.

Eat Lung-Loving Foods

Food plays a big role in keeping your lungs healthy. In TCM, certain foods are considered to “nourish” the lungs, especially if they’re moist, warm, and easy to digest. Here are some tips:

• Go for “white” foods like pears, almonds, and radishes. These are considered cooling and soothing for the lungs.

• Warm soups and stews - These add moisture to your body and keep it warm, especially in colder weather.

• Avoid phlegm-forming foods like dairy, fried foods, and too much sugar. These can clog up your lungs and make breathing harder.

So, next time you’re planning meals, think about foods that warm and support the lungs and avoid ones that might add extra “mucus” to your system.

Try Simple Breathing Exercises

Breathing exercises are a great way to help your lungs stay strong and clear. Here are two easy ones to try:

Belly Breathing

This exercise is simple and relaxing. Breathe deeply through your nose and let your belly expand. Then breathe out slowly through your mouth. Do this for about 5–10 breaths. It helps you breathe more fully and relaxes you too.

Gentle Sighing

Sometimes, we hold tension in our chests without realising it. Try taking a deep breath and letting out a soft, relaxed sigh as you exhale. It’s a nice release and can help clear any heaviness in your chest.

These exercises support your lungs by improving circulation and helping you breathe more naturally.

Acupressure for Lung Support

Acupressure is like giving yourself a gentle massage in specific spots that are thought to benefit the lungs. You can try these at home:

Chest Point - Right below your collarbone on either side of your chest. Press gently here to relieve tightness and support easy breathing.

Inner Elbow Point - On the inside of your elbow, toward the thumb side. Massaging this point can help clear your chest and ease coughs.

Try pressing these points for a few minutes daily to help keep your lungs in good shape.

Create a Lung-Friendly Environment

Your environment plays a big role in how well your lungs function. Here are some quick tips:

Keep it moist

Dry air can irritate the lungs. Using a humidifier, especially in colder months, adds moisture to the air, which is easier on your lungs.

Keep it clean

Try to avoid smoke, strong fragrances, or pollutants in the air. If possible, bring some plants indoors – they’re great for cleaning the air!

Get fresh air

Spending time outside (away from traffic and pollution) gives your lungs a break and lets them breathe in clean air.

Use Gentle Herbs for Lung Health

There are a few herbs known for their lung-supporting benefits:

• Ginger

  This warming herb helps open up the lungs and improve circulation, especially if you’re feeling cold or congested.

• Licorice Root

  Often used to ease coughs and clear up phlegm.

• Astragalus

  Known for its immune-boosting properties, this herb is often taken in colder months to keep your lungs and immune system strong.

It’s best to consult an acupuncturist or herbalist for the right combinations, especially if you’re considering herbs for the first time.

Stay Warm, Avoid the Chill

Cold air isn’t great for the lungs, especially if you’re already feeling under the weather. Make sure to stay warm, especially around your chest and neck, to protect your lungs. If it’s cold and windy, keep a scarf around your neck to shield your chest from the chill.

Look After Your Emotions

Believe it or not, in TCM, the lungs are connected to our emotional health. If we hold onto sadness, it can feel heavy in the chest. Finding healthy ways to release emotions—whether that’s talking to friends, taking a quiet moment, or doing something creative—can help keep your lungs and your mind clear.

Final Thoughts

Looking after your lungs is about more than avoiding colds—it’s about keeping your energy up, staying mentally balanced, and supporting your immune system. Try adding some of these easy, natural tips into your daily life and notice how they help keep you feeling clear, strong, and ready to breathe easy. And if you’re curious about trying more, consider connecting with a trained acupuncturist for more personalized advice!