Summer Season Health & Wellness

Summertime! Well it seems in Minnesota we’ve completely skipped Spring and jumped right into the hot weather of Summer. I don’t know about you, but I’ve been working quickly to adjust to the new way of life, it is so different from Winter and early Spring practices. 

Welcome to the season of longer days, lazier afternoons and an increase in energy to match the bustling months to come!

It is likely that you are already eating lighter, more cooling foods and doing things to match this Summer energy (spending time outside, swimming, connecting with friends) These simple changes are what seasonal harmony is all about, and will help promote health for your body and mind. 

The Summer season is ruled by the element of Fire and contains the energies of expansion, movement, energy and growth. The emotion related to this season is Joy. The mind and the spirit of the Heart are very important and typically thrive during this time of year. It is a good time to connect with loved ones and actively practice those pursuits that bring us great joy and happiness. When a lack of joy or and overabundance of manic energy is present, then we know it is time for some shiatsu or acupuncture to help bring us back into balance. Practioners of Chinese Medicine can also provide lifestyle advice so that you are able to come back into balance on your own. 

Living in harmony with the seasons is at the core of Traditional Chinese wisdom. Health is nurtured by living in harmony with nature, one’s environment and found through preventative practices and practical eating. 

Align with Summertime

• Take advantage of the longer days by getting up early and staying awake later at night
• Rest in the middle of the day when it is most hot
• Invite Water into your life in order to temper the Fire energy…do this by drinking plenty of hydrating fluids and staying cool by swimming in the lake or taking cool showers
• Be mindful of anger, it aggravates Heat
• Cultivate Joy and Happiness

Foods for Summer Season

• Light easily digestible foods
• Fresh vegetables, especially organic locally grown
• Fresh fruits, especially organic locally grown
• Put sliced cucumber or watermelon and fresh mint sprigs in your water for a healthy cooling beverage
• Summer is a good time to eat more salads and raw foods for many stronger bodies, but caution should be taken when Qi is weak

Here is where I remind you that it is always best to talk to your physician before making any major changes to your diet. Professional practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine can also provide safe advice on lifestyle practices and foods that will suit you! This article is for information purposes only and cannot substitute personal advice from a professional.