Living with the seasons emotionally and physically this Summer

Summer represents the outward expression of energy, expansiveness, movement and activity. It is the most yang of the seasons and is ruled by the fire element and is associated with the heart and small intestine organ. Summer and the Fire element is associated with the colour red and the emotion joy in Chinese Medicine.

Summer is a time for growth, expansion, abundance, light and the manifestation of all we have been cultivating during Spring. It is the season where seeds that were sown in Spring come to fruition. Plants grow quickly and people tend to be more full of energy and vitality. With days being longer and the weather warmer, summer often improves peoples moods and are more likely to become outward and be drawn to outdoor activities like BBQ’s, outdoor gatherings, beach walks or swims and nature or parkland walks.

Heart and Mental Acuity 

In Chinese Medicine, the Heart, mind and spirit are ruled by the fire element, so priority should be taken to ensure aspects of ourselves are reflected upon for the Heart (Fire element) doesn’t become imbalanced, or flip into an excess state.

When the Hearts energy is balanced within us our lives are more rich with laughter, joy and passion. The heart circulates oxygen rich blood throughout the body and is vital for harmonious Qi flow for physical balance. The heart governs mental acuity and is associated with memory, thought processes, consciousness and emotional wellbeing. When balanced, the mind is calm and we sleep deeply and wake rested.

Heart Imbalances

When the Heart is imbalanced we may lack joy and instead depression may appear. An excess state of joy may occur (mania or manic behaviour). Other characteristics of an imbalanced heart include:

• Nervousness, anxiety
• Insomnia
• Rashes or hives
• Heartburn
• Confusion
• Red complexion
• Poor memory
• Speech problems
• Heart palpitations

Tips to keep your Heart balanced:

• Eat cooling foods i.e. increase fruits and vegetables
• Include bitter or pungent foods into your diet
• Increase intake of endive, spinach, kale, goji berries, cherries and berries, watermelon, tomatoes 
• Drink plenty of water and other fluids
• Exercise or walk daily to enhance wellbeing and circulation
• Wake earlier to absorb the morning sunshine
• Enjoy time outdoors (use the yang energy that is abundant in Summer)
• Try Acupuncture to maintain balance
• Trust your intuition. The heart rules understanding and intelligence, but not of the cerebral type. When we know something in our heart we are connected to a deeper part of our being. Try to engage in this knowing and take time to listen to your inner voice. 

As summer brings a myriad of intense colours, sounds, and fragrances - engage your senses this summer and make yourself available to the abundance all around you. For any help, contact us via email, our contact page or give us a call. 

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