Summer: the time of the Heart & Small Intestine
Summer is the season associated with the Heart, Small Intestine, Fire Element, Heat, Expansion, and Up-Outward Movement. The summer is the peak of the Yang cycle when daytime is prominent, and activity is at its highest. Growth, joy and spiritual awareness between the heart and mind are the focus during this season.
Summer is considered the full expression of yang, with its quick, hot, bright, and active nature. In Summer, the days are longer and the temperatures rise. It is a time of movement, growth, and expansion.
Heat causes things to quicken and expand. The increase in heat during this time of year is related to the strength of the summer sun. This strong sun that blazes down and enlivens our internal and external worlds can be viewed as the embodiment of the Fire element in Chinese Medicine.
Emotionally, this element is associated with the mind and it’s stability. Enthusiasm, warmth in human relationships and conscious awareness. When imbalanced, we may either lack joy (depression) or have an excess of joy (maniac condition).
Physically, when the fire element is balanced, the heart properly governs and circulates the blood and insures proper assimilation of the beginning breakdown of food in the small intestines.
Summer and the Fire element are related to the sound of laughter, and the color red. This associated imagery and characteristics are reflective in many of our modern summer rituals, celebrations and activities – such as gathering around a fire.
Signs of Disharmony:
Depression
Mania
Agitation
Nervousness
Insomnia
Heart Burn
Palpitations
High blood pressure
Stiff joints
Poor Blood circulation
Anemia
Poor Memory
Suggestions for living in harmony with the Fire season:
Activities: Deep breathing, Meditation, Tai Chi, Qi Gong, Yoga, and Dry Brushing
When the Fire element is in balance, the heart is strong and healthy, the mind is calm, and sleep is sound. The emotional virtue of the Heart is presence. Being present in the moment provides the capacity for adequate action and responsibility. Go to sleep later in the evening, rest midday, drink plenty of fluids, refrain from anger and remain even-tempered.
Wake: It is advised during summer to wake up early and rise with the sun
Rest later: Following the Sun, it is recommended to rest once the Sun as set. Use the great Yang energy to move through the day's activities.
Hydrate: The heat of the summer can dry out our bodies that can lead to a variety of problems. Make sure to prioritize hydration this season to keep our bodies fresh and happy! If you feel dizzy, quit all activity and get out of the sun fast. Drink cool, not cold water with a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in it. The vinegar helps to replace electrolytes and minerals like sports drinks do.
Cool: In ancient Egypt, China and the Far East, watermelon juice and its seeds were traditionally offered to thirsty travelers. This flavorful fruit is one of the best remedies for dehydration and summer heat symptoms. Watermelon cools and cleanses the system, clearing summer heat and acts as a natural diuretic.
Fresh: Other than Watermelon you can enjoy cooling foods such as, cucumber, berries, green leafy vegetables, salads, oranges, watermelon, mung beans, snow peas, bok choy, and cantaloupe. Especially during hot months, restrict your intake of heavy, greasy, and fried foods, as well as excessive alcohol. These types of food preparations can add more heat to the system – leading to imbalance.
Herbal Formula for Easy Digestion:
#4 Bao He Wan
Lots of travel happening this time of year! The stress of traveling and eating unfamiliar foods can cause lots of digestive upset😖
Bao He Wan is here to help you get through summer travel induced bloat and indigestion so you can keep on enjoying yourself!
Overall Bao He Wan works by helping you digest food and feeling more comfortable after overeating by moving food stagnation and reducing bloating.
This formula is known for promoting digestion, removing food stagnation, and harmonizing the stomach. Bao He Wan is suitable to be used as needed for indigestion or regularly for those who have chronic digestion issues.
Pack Bao He Wan in your travel bag and enjoy every meal, whether you're tasting street food in Bangkok, dining in Paris, or feasting in New York City. Say goodbye to discomfort and hello to happy, healthy travels! ✈️🍽️❤️
Please be aware this formula is not for those who are gluten intolerant!
If you would like to give Bao He Wan a try give us a call/text at (512) 775-4057, email at lightfamilyacupuncture@gmail.com, order on our online shop, or pick up at your next appointment!
Acupressure for Regulating Digestion: SJ 6
Experiencing digestive discomfort and constipation? SJ 6, also known as the "Branching Ditch," could be your natural solution! 🌿✨
Located on the outer side of your forearm, about four finger-widths above the wrist, SJ 6 is a powerful point used in traditional Chinese medicine to promote overall wellness. Whether you're at home, at work, or on the go, a few minutes of acupressure on SJ 6 can make a world of difference.
Benefits of Stimulating SJ 6:
Eases stress and anxiety
Alleviates bloating and constipation
Relieves pain in the upper body
Supports healthy digestion
Check out our recent Instagram Post to see how to find this point!
Incorporate this simple acupressure technique into your daily routine and experience the calming, balancing effects it can bring. Perfect for those who want a quick, natural remedy to enhance their well-being! 🌿💪
