End of Heat on Aug. 23: Lung Health Tips for Autumn
AM730 · 1 SOURCESabout 3 hours ago5 MIN
Summary
The End of Heat (Chushu), the second solar term of autumn falling on August 23, signals that summer's sweltering heat is beginning to fade and cooler weather approaches. However, Hong Kong's subtropical location means the "autumn tiger"—a term for lingering summer-like heat—can still bring high daytime temperatures. This dry, hot weather commonly triggers health issues including dry coughs, constipation, nosebleeds, and joint pain. Health experts advise consuming lung-nourishing and yin-moistening foods while adding layers to stay warm as temperatures fluctuate .
Key Points
- Autumn's dry climate depletes the body's津液 (vital fluids), with the lungs most vulnerable to燥邪 (autumn dryness pathogen), causing口乾舌燥 (dry mouth and throat), skin itchiness, and constipation
- Recommended润肺 (lung-nourishing) foods include snow fungus (雪耳), lily bulbs (百合), and pears (水梨); acidic foods also benefit lung health
- Avoid生冷寒涼 (cold and cooling) foods that can weaken脾陽 (spleen yang) and cause bloating, sticky stools, and dampness accumulation
- The子午覺 (midnight and midday rest) method—sleeping during the rat hours (11pm–1am) for liver detoxification and a 20-minute afternoon nap for heart health—lowers cardiovascular disease risk
- 處暑 (End of Heat) transitions from yin to yang; dressing warmly, eating moistening foods, and regular exercise help the body adapt
Why It Matters
Autumn dryness poses real health challenges for Hong Kong residents, where the humid subtropical climate can mask the drying effects of the season change. Practical dietary adjustments—prioritizing润肺滋阴 (lung-nourishing and yin-moistening) ingredients—offer tangible relief from common seasonal ailments. Incorporating子午覺 sleep patterns and spleen-strengthening foods helps residents navigate this transitional period while reducing their risk of heat-related and cardiovascular conditions.
Autumn dryness poses real health challenges for Hong Kong residents, where the humid subtropical climate can mask the drying effects of the season change. Practical dietary adjustments—prioritizing润肺滋阴 (lung-nourishing and yin-moistening) ingredients—offer tangible relief from common seasonal ailments. Incorporating子午覺 sleep patterns and spleen-strengthening foods helps residents navigate this transitional period while reducing their risk of heat-related and cardiovascular conditions.