Lungs (fei)

physiology (organs)

The lungs govern qi and respiration, and they also “disperse” protective qi (wei qi) across the body’s surface, providing resistance to external pathogens. They “direct” qi downward and help regulate the waterways, guiding fluids to the kidneys. The lungs are connected to the skin and hair and “open” at the nose. Healthy lungs are characterized by even breathing, strong protective qi, and unobstructed nasal breathing. Weakness in the lungs leads to shortness of breath, frequent colds, and sweating; heat in the lungs causes a cough with thick phlegm.