Late Summer Wellness Tips
As we begin to transition toward the Fall season, we pass through what is known as Late Summer in Chinese Medicine. According to the Huang Di Nei Jing, an over 2,000 year old Chinese Medicine text, there is a period between each season associated with the Earth element, however, the transition between Summer and Fall is when the Earth element is the strongest.
The Earth element is associated with the Spleen and Stomach organs so there is an emphasis on the digestive system during this time. It really makes sense when you think about it in relation to the natural world. Late summer is the harvest season. A time when we gather the abundance that Mother Nature has provided and let it nourish our body.
According to Chinese Medicine, the Spleen is responsible for transforming the food we eat into Qi and Blood. When the Spleen is weak, various health issues can arise that range from digestive issues to gynecological concerns. In addition, the Earth element is associated with dampness, the climate of late summer. Dampness can present in the body in many ways such as muscles weakness, mental and physical fatigue, worry, and digestive issues.
In Chinese Medicine, we use seasonal changes as an opportunity to improve our health and wellness so that we can prevent illness. Earth generates Metal in the five element cycle, with Metal being the element associated with the Lung and Large Intestine as well as the Fall season. Fall is when we often see cold and flu season pop up. Following the tips below will allow you to cultivate strong Qi in your Spleen and Stomach and will contribute to a stronger immune system this Fall.
Eat with the seasons: Foods associated with the Earth element are often yellow, mildly sweet, and round. These include ginger, corn, chickpeas, millet, white and sweet potatoes, squash, carrots, rice, and fish. As we transition from Summer to Fall, begin to cook more of your food. While it is still okay to eat some raw foods, the Spleen does a better job of transforming cooked foods into energy for the body.
Eat breakfast: It is good practice to eat a substantial breakfast between 7 and 9am when the Qi is strong in the Stomach. This allows the Spleen time to digest during its strongest time which is between 9 and 11 am. Ideally breakfast is cooked to help support the transformation of food to Qi. Think congee, breakfast scramble, hot oatmeal, and similar meals. If possible, avoid eating cold, sugary cereals, yogurts, or smoothies as those are challenging for the body to digest and tend to cause dampness.
Find your center: Take some time to reflect on your year so far and examine those experiences. What has served you well this year? Brought you joy? Nourished your soul? Seek out those activities that fulfill and ground you.
Be mindful of your intake: The Earth element is not only responsible for digesting your food but also your thoughts. Take note of what you are consuming mentally (ie. news, social media, self talk, etc.) and ask yourself if it is allowing you to cultivate the mindset you desire.
Get acupuncture: Acupuncture helps to keep the body and mind flowing. Whether you are feeling symptoms or simply want to prevent illness, getting a treatment can help you feel balanced and at ease.