Why Do We Feel More Tired and Moody in Autumn?

A TCM Perspective on Seasonal Fatigue and the “Fall Blues”

As the air becomes cooler and daylight gradually shortens, many people begin to notice a shift in their body and mind. Energy levels drop more easily, mornings feel heavier, and motivation is harder to maintain. Some even experience emotional sensitivity, low mood, or a sense of melancholy for no clear reason. While it may be tempting to blame the weather alone, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) suggests that there are deeper seasonal changes happening within our bodies that influence our physical vitality and emotional balance during Autumn.

According to TCM theory, each season is connected to a specific organ system, and Autumn is closely linked to the Lungs. The Lung system in TCM plays a vital role in governing our immune defenses, regulating respiration and energy circulation, maintaining the skin and body fluids, and processing emotions particularly grief and sadness. As the season becomes cooler and drier, Lung energy can weaken, making the body more prone to fatigue, frequent colds, allergies, dryness of the skin or throat, and emotional sensitivity. This internal dryness also affects the Yin aspect of the Lungs, which normally moisten and protect the body. When Yin is depleted, we feel physically drained and mentally ungrounded.

Autumn also brings strong temperature differences between morning and night. These frequent shifts force the body to constantly adapt, consuming large amounts of Qi, or vital energy, in the process. In addition, Autumn is naturally the driest time of the year, and dryness further strains the Lung system, leaving us feeling tired, low in stamina, and more vulnerable to illness. In TCM, the energetic direction of Autumn moves downward and inward, signaling the body to slow down, conserve energy, and prepare for the stillness of winter. However, in modern life, we often ignore these cues and continue living at a summer pace, which accelerates seasonal fatigue.

Emotionally, many people experience what is often called the “fall blues.” In TCM, this is closely related to the Lung’s connection with the emotion of grief. When Lung Qi is imbalanced, we may feel nostalgic, sad, or emotionally heavy without a specific cause. At the same time, shorter days mean less sunlight, reducing the body’s yang energy and contributing to low motivation, slower thinking, and mood changes. Mental stress and overthinking can also weaken the Spleen an organ responsible for transforming food into Qi—leading to physical tiredness and emotional instability. When both Lung and Spleen Qi are weakened, seasonal fatigue and mood swings become more pronounced.

TCM offers a holistic approach to restoring balance in Autumn by supporting the organ systems most affected by seasonal change. Strengthening Lung Qi through acupuncture can improve immunity, enhance breathing, and regulate emotional energy. Proper breathing habits, good posture, and lifestyle choices such as avoiding cold air directly on the chest or staying up late can further protect the Lungs. Because dryness is a dominant seasonal factor, it is important to nourish moisture and Yin by consuming hydrating foods such as pears, honey, lotus root, tofu, and gentle herbal teas, while limiting excessively spicy or fried foods that create internal heat and dryness. Supporting the Spleen with regular meal times, warm and easily digestible foods, and moderate exercise helps prevent fatigue and maintain steady energy levels. Emotional balance is equally important herbal formulas may be used to soothe Lung Qi, while calming activities like tai chi, walking, and a consistent evening routine help the mind settle and restore inner harmony.

In TCM philosophy, Autumn is not meant to be a season of decline but a period of reflection, clarity, and preparation. Feeling a bit tired or emotional during this time is not a sign of weakness, but rather the body’s natural response to shifting seasonal energy. By honoring the rhythm of Autumn, strengthening lung health, maintaining moisture, supporting digestion, and caring for our emotions, we can move through the season with resilience and ease. For those who experience persistent fatigue, repeated colds, dryness, mood swings, or insomnia during this time of year, personalized TCM treatments such as acupuncture, herbal prescriptions, cupping, and moxibustion can provide targeted support and guide the body back into balance.

Autumn doesn’t have to drain us. When we live in harmony with seasonal energy rather than resisting it, this time of year can become a powerful season for healing, inner growth, and renewed strength.