Chinese Medicine
Chinese Medicine Theory - Summer
Element – Fire, Color – Red, Nature – Yang, Movement – Up and Outward
Organs – Heart, Small Intestine, Emotion – Joy
Taste – Bitter, Condition – Hot
Summer is Fire, one of the Five Elements. It is symbolic of the maximum activity and the greatest Yang; a time of heat and movement, nature at its peak of growth. Summer heat is expressed in the body.
Chinese Medicine is based on balancing opposites in nature; dark and light, hot and cold, masculine and feminine , Yin and Yang. All seasons have associated flavours, tastes, colours, body systems, disease and emotions which effect health. We can balance our diet and activity patterns by looking to Nature and learn how to balance ourselves with environmental and seasonal changes.
Summer is the most active Yang time of year, with flowers blooming, vegetables ripening and our own holidays and outdoor activities. It is a time of expansion, growth, joy, activity and creativity. In Summer heat, the body undergoes vigorous metabolic processes.
Chinese Medicine recommends cultivating Yang energy in spring and summer, while protecting Yin energy in autumn and winter. The season is filled with abundant energy, long days and sunshine, so it can lead some to do too much. We can sometimes get exhausted with so many events, activities like gardening, hiking, biking and vacationing along with a normal workload.
Fire Chi
Summer is Fire, one of the Five Elements. It is symbolic of the most maximum activity and the greatest Yang; a time of heat and movement. Nature is at its peak of growth in summer, and all is moving in upward motion. In anatomy, the heart, mind, and spirit are ruled by Fire, so priority is given to heart, mind, and spirit for staying healthy in summer.
When Fire is in balance, the heart is strong and healthy, and circulates blood to help assimilate food into the small intestines, and keeps the mind calm for sound sleep. When Fire is out of balance, we may lack joy, be depressed or have an excess of joy, and be in a maniac, agitated state.
Tips for Summer Health
Taking care of yourself during the summer season, according to Chinese medicine, involves aligning your lifestyle with the Fire element's qualities and balancing the heart and small intestine meridians. Here are some ways to nurture your well-being during this vibrant time:
Stay Cool and Hydrated: Summer's heat can deplete bodily fluids and increase the risk of overheating. Drink plenty of water, herbal teas, and eat hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumber, and leafy greens. Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol, caffeine, and spicy foods, which can add to internal heat.
Balance Activity and Rest: Embrace the season's energy by engaging in outdoor activities, socializing, and enjoying the sun, but also make time for rest and relaxation to prevent burnout. Gentle evening walks, swimming, and light yoga are excellent ways to stay active without overheating.
Eat Seasonally: Incorporate seasonal fruits and vegetables into your diet to stay in harmony with nature's cycle. Foods that cool the body, such as berries, melons, zucchini, and tomatoes, can help maintain internal balance. Cooking methods like steaming or lightly sautéing can preserve the nutrients and cooling properties of these foods.
Regulate Emotions: The heart, associated with the Fire element, governs emotions, particularly joy. While summer naturally brings about a sense of happiness, it's important to manage stress and avoid overexertion. Practices like meditation, tai chi, or qigong can help calm the mind and nourish the spirit.
Protect Your Skin: The intense summer sun can damage the skin. Use natural sunscreens, wear protective clothing, and avoid prolonged exposure during peak sun hours. Aloe vera and cooling herbs like mint can soothe and protect your skin.
By integrating these practices into your daily routine, you can enjoy the vibrant energy of summer while maintaining balance and harmony in your body and mind.