Embracing Summer

Summer, the most yang time of the year, is filled with abundant energy and lots of sunshine. It’s associated with the Fire Element, expansion, growth, activity, joy and creativity. To live a balanced life we should cultivate Yang energy in the spring and summer, and protect yin in the autumn and winter. Here are some tips to help you stay in balance this summer.

Be Active

The heart is associated with the fire element, and it’s main function is to pump oxygen rich blood to your whole body. Getting your heart pumping regularly will help keep it strong.

Ancient Chinese physicians advised to awaken early in the morning and go to be later in the evening. Follow the natural rhythm of the sun. A midday rest is a great way to recharge- but keep naps to about 30 minutes to avoid disrupting your sleep!

Summer is an excellent opportunity to be active outside while having fun!

Find Joy

In Chinese Medicine, mental activity, memory and emotional well being are all attributed to the Heart. Joy is the emotional associated with the Fire Element, and too much joy can cause disease.

If our Fire Element is in balance, we will sleep calmly and our heart will be strong and healthy. If it becomes imbalanced we may have insomnia, heart palpitations, depression, anxiety or mania.

Look for joyful moments every day and savor them. Gratitude is a great way to nurture joy in our lives. Try starting off each day naming 3 things you’re grateful for.

Eat Light

To live in balance during summer, eat lighter, hydrating and cooling foods. Summer is the time to eat all of the seasonal produce around us, salads (!), fish and seafood. Eat with the seasons! Avoid eating a lot of meat and fried foods this time of year since these create too much heat and dampness inside of us. Add a small amount of pungent flavors to your diet such as spices, chili peppers, garlic and onions. Pungent flavors “wake up” the senses. They tend to open the flow of energy in your body and can improve metabolism. As always, eat in moderation - until your 2/3 full.

San Fu Moxa

On the most Yang days of the year, we can harness the energy of the sun. Through the use of herbs on specific points, we can strengthen our Yang energy for better vitality in the winter. Available for a limited time, San Fu Moxa treatments are best in a series of 3, 10 days apart.

Live joyfully in the moment, get lots of sunshine, book your San Fu Moxa, and enjoy Summer!