Embrace the Heat: Summer According to Chinese Medicine
Summer is upon us, and it's time to bask in the sun, enjoy long days, and indulge in the season's vibrant energy. Wondering if Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine are appropriate for the hot days ahead? As with all seasons, Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine takes a deeper and more connected approach by examining the Yin and Yang synergies of the year, our meridians, and natural elements to understand how to stay cool and balanced this summer. Especially if like us in New York City, you’re subject to some of the more extreme elements of the season.
The Fire Element: Honoring the Energy of Summer
In Chinese Medicine, summer is associated with the Fire element. Think of it as the season’s spirit animal. Fire symbolizes heat, growth, and, of course, the heart. This element rules our circulatory system and governs joy, passion, and the drive for life. When balanced, the Fire element makes us feel vibrant and alive. It’s the spark that keeps life moving.
But beware! Too much Fire can lead to burnout—literally and figuratively. Signs of an overactive Fire element include insomnia, agitation, and a craving for drama. On the flip side, if your Fire is lacking, you might feel a bit like you’re in a slump: lethargic, uninspired, and generally blah.
The Heart of the Matter
Summer is the season of the heart, the emperor of all organs in Chinese Medicine. It’s responsible for circulating blood and housing the Shen, or spirit. Keeping your heart happy and healthy is key to making the most of summer’s energy. So, how can you nurture your heart and, in turn, your Shen? Here are a few tips:
Laugh Often: Laughter truly is the best medicine. It stimulates the heart and promotes a sense of well-being. So, go ahead, watch that funny movie or share jokes with friends.
Stay Connected: Summer is a time for socializing. Whether it's a picnic in the park or a beach bonfire, surround yourself with loved ones to feed your heart and spirit.
Eat Red Foods: In Chinese Medicine, colors are significant. Red foods like tomatoes, strawberries, and watermelon nourish the heart. Plus, they’re delicious and hydrating—a win-win!
Chill Out: Balancing the Heat
With summer’s sweltering heat, it's easy to get overheated and irritable. Here’s where the art of balancing comes into play. Acupuncture & Chinese Medicine offers some cool (pun intended) tips to help you stay on your Summertime high:
Hydrate Smartly: Drink plenty of water, but avoid icy beverages. Instead, opt for room temperature or slightly chilled drinks. Add a splash of watermelon, lemon or mint for an extra cooling effect.
Enjoy Cooling Foods: Usually Chinese Medicine isn’t a huge proponent of raw or cold foods, but Summertime can be an appropriate exception to the rule. Incorporate cooling foods like cucumbers, melons, and leafy greens into your diet. These foods help balance internal heat and keep you refreshed.
Chill with Herbs: Try teas made from chrysanthemum, mint, or hibiscus. These herbs have cooling properties that can help regulate your body temperature.
Move Like the Summer Breeze
Summer is the perfect time to get moving, but in a gentle and enjoyable way. Think of activities that mimic the flow of a summer breeze: yoga, tai chi, swimming, or even a leisurely evening walk. The goal is to keep your Qi, circulation, and metabolic functions flowing smoothly without overheating.
Embrace the Night
Finally, take a cue from nature. Longer days mean more daylight, but don’t forget to enjoy the coolness of the night. Twilight and evening are perfect for relaxation and unwinding. Engage in calming activities like stargazing, reading, or simply sitting outside and listening to the night sounds. Here in New York and Brooklyn, it might be a good excuse to enjoy some of the city’s various evening summertime activities.
Be the Grasshopper
Summer through the lens of Chinese Medicine is centered on embracing and balancing the Fire element, keeping your heart happy, balancing the heat, and moving gently. By doing so, you'll not only survive the summer but thrive in it, radiating with the season's vibrant energy. As the most Yang time of year, nature is encouraging us to seek out what brings us joy, to travel, to stay up later, to enjoy the fruits of our labor, and to generally be a little lighter about life. It’s ok to be the grasshopper sometimes.
And of course if you’re here in New York City and need a summertime seasonal reset, we offer Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine at our offices in Noho and Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Click here to book your appointment today!