Summer Wellness Tips
Chinese medicine has a deep understanding of the relationship between nature and human health. We see the shift from Spring to Summer happening around us through the leaves on the trees, the flowers blooming, and the temperature trending higher, but it is not just nature that responds to the changes. Our bodies do too!
There are energetic shifts that occur in both our physical and mental bodies with seasonal changes. According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) principles, Summer is a time of abundant energy, growth, and outward movement.
Summer is considered a yang season associated with the element of fire, which corresponds with the Heart and Small Intestine organs in TCM. When the fire element is in balance, the mind is calm, the heart is healthy, and sleep is restorative. When the fire element is out of balance, sleep will be poor, there may be cardiac issues, and possibly emotional disturbances.
With a few lifestyle and dietary shifts, we can better align ourselves with the flow of summer allowing for a healthier, happier, more energetic summer.
Eat cooling foods: Incorporate foods with cooling properties into your diet, such as watermelon, cucumber, berries, snow peas, mint, mung beans, fish, and green leafy vegetables.
Avoid excessive heat: Minimize the consumption of greasy, heavy, and fried foods, as well as alcohol, as they can generate excess heat in the body.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, to maintain hydration levels and support the body’s cooling mechanisms. Consider adding watermelon, berries, and mint for an added boost to your water.
Cook lightly: Opt for lighter cooking methods such as steaming, boiling, or stir-frying to avoid overheating the body. This is the time of year when the digestive fire is the strongest, so eating raw fruits and vegetables is great. However, if you are prone to digestive issues, don’t overconsume raw foods as it could make the issues worse.
Balance activity and rest: This is the time of year to do longer, more intense workouts. Consider adding some extra cardio in for heart health. Be aware of the needs of your body though and get enough rest to balance the intensity of your activities.
Cultivate joy and social connections: Summer is a time of celebration and socializing. Engage in activities that bring you joy, connect with loved ones, and foster a positive mindset.
As with any seasonal change, get acupuncture. Whether it is just a seasonal tune-up to prevent symptoms, or you have something going on, acupuncture can help!