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Traditional Chinese Medicine

Seasonal Wellness Guide for Koh Samui

Month-by-month TCM wisdom adapted for Koh Samui's tropical climate. Discover the foods, lifestyle practices, and acupressure points that align with your body's natural rhythms.

Monsoon to Cool Transition

October

Metal Element

Rain begins to ease (27-31C). Occasional heavy storms but sunny periods return. Humidity starts dropping. The island feels like it's exhaling. Bodies begin transitioning from survival mode.

Organ Focus: Lung (Restoration)

Metal Element

As dampness recedes, the Lung can finally begin its natural descending and dispersing function. This is the optimal time for Lung restoration. The Metal element governs the skin, breathing, and immune defense — all of which need rebuilding after months of monsoon stress. Focus on nourishing Lung Yin and Qi.

Foods to Eat

White fungus (snow ear)

Supreme Lung Yin tonic — moistens without creating dampness

Almonds (sweet)

Moisten the Lung and stop dry cough

Figs

Nourish Lung and Large Intestine Yin, gentle laxative

Seaweed

Resolves residual phlegm and softens hardened accumulations

Sesame seeds (white)

Moisten the Lung and intestines after drying out from monsoon

Pork bone soup

Nourishes Yin and blood after the depleting monsoon

Pomelo

Local seasonal fruit that resolves phlegm and aids digestion

Foods to Avoid

Very spicy food

Can damage recovering Lung Yin with too much dispersing heat

Dried, smoked, or overly salty foods

Further dry out Lung Yin that needs rebuilding

Excessive ginger and warming herbs

Too drying now that dampness is clearing

Daily Practices

Lifestyle Recommendations

1

Resume outdoor exercise — beach walks, swimming, cycling as the weather improves

2

Practice Lung-opening stretches: arms wide, chest open, deep inhalations

3

Start skin-care restoration — the Lung governs the skin, and monsoon damage needs repair

4

Begin planning and organizing (Metal element qualities) for the busy cool season ahead

Acupressure Point of the Month

Lung 9 (Tai Yuan)

Location

On the wrist crease, on the thumb side, in the depression where you can feel the radial pulse.

How to Press

Press very gently (the pulse is right here) for 1-2 minutes per wrist. Use calming, steady pressure rather than deep massage.

Benefits

Yuan-source point of the Lung. Tonifies Lung Qi, nourishes Lung Yin, strengthens the pulse, and supports overall respiratory recovery.

TCM Drink of the Month

White Fungus & Goji Restoration Soup

Recipe

Soak 1 piece of white fungus until soft (30 min). Simmer with 10 goji berries, 5 red dates, and a piece of rock sugar in 600ml water for 45 minutes until jelly-like. Eat warm.

TCM Benefit

Deeply nourishes Lung and Kidney Yin, replenishes fluids lost during monsoon, and gives the skin a visible glow.

Watch For

Common Conditions in October

Dry cough after monsoon clears (Lung Yin depleted)

Dry skin and hair after months of humidity shifts

Lingering fatigue as the body transitions

Constipation as internal moisture rebalances

Weakened voice or shortness of breath

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Seasonal Tune-Up Treatments Available

Every body responds to seasonal changes differently. Book a session with Claire for a personalized assessment and treatment tailored to what your body needs right now — including acupuncture, cupping, moxibustion, and herbal recommendations.