TCM Summer Wellness Tips
Emerging from the hibernation of winter and the renewal of spring, we meet the vibrant energy of summer. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), summer is associated with the Fire element. This element governs the heart and small intestine, playing a crucial role in both our physical and emotional health.
Life and energies peak during summer. It’s a time for growth, expansion, light, and abundance, manifesting all cultivated during the spring.
Central to TCM is the principle of living in harmony with the seasons. This involves adapting to the natural changes around us by consuming locally grown, seasonal foods and aligning our exercises and self-care practices to match the energy of the season.
Here are some simple summer wellness tips to align with the energy of summer:
Diet: Nourishing the Heart and Small Intestine
In TCM, “cooling” refers to how foods affect the body when ingested, not their temperature. Avoid ice-cold foods and drinks — room temperature is easier on your digestive system. Incorporate fruits and vegetables like celery, lettuce, mushroom, papaya, and watermelon into your summer meals as well as herbs like ginger, mint, and matcha to re-balance and regulate your internal temperature.
Cooling Foods: Incorporate foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and mint to counteract summer heat.
Bitter Greens: Add dandelion greens, arugula, and kale to support heart health and digestion.
Hydrating Fruits: Enjoy berries, melons, and citrus fruits to stay hydrated and boost antioxidants.
Light and Fresh Meals: Opt for salads, smoothies, and lightly steamed vegetables for easy digestion.
Activities: Harnessing Summer Energy
Summer is a time of movement, growth, and expansion. Embrace the season's vibrant energy by practicing activities that boost physical fitness, reduce stress, and foster creativity and social connections.
Outdoor Exercise: Lean into activities like hiking, swimming, and cycling to stay active and connect with nature.
Mind-Body Practices: Incorporate yoga, or Pilates to promote balance and reduce stress.
Creative Pursuits: Take time for hobbies like painting, gardening, or cooking to tap into summer’s creative energy.
Social Connections: Spend time with loved ones and participate in community events to foster emotional well-being.
Self-Care: Balancing the Inner Fire
Summer’s energy can be intense, making it essential to practice self-care to maintain balance with the season’s heightened Yang energy. Here are some tips to help you stay cool, hydrated, and emotionally centered during the warmer months:
Hydration: Drink plenty of water and enjoy herbal teas like chrysanthemum or peppermint.
Rest and Relaxation: Ensure adequate sleep and take time to relax with meditation or reading.
Heart-Centered Practices: Practice gratitude exercises, regular journaling, and heart-opening yoga poses to cultivate joy.
Acupressure: Utilize acupressure points such as Large Intestine 4 (between the thumb and index finger) and Heart 8 (on the palm) to help cool the body and ease stress. Regular acupressure sessions can help maintain balance and enhance your overall well-being.
Personally, I find that summer’s longer days and warmer nights invite me to step outside my comfort zone, explore new passions, and reconnect with the world around me. Let the energy of summer inspire you to explore, grow, and fully embrace the present moment. Here’s to making the most of this vibrant season and all the opportunities it brings.
