Summertime and The Fire Element in Eastern Medicine and Acupuncture
Dr. Scott Greenapple
Summer is now officially here. In traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) the Fire element governs summer, the season of the highest heat and outward expression.
In TCM, this is considered the most Yang time of year. Yang distributes function and energy. The season, when we are in balance, rewards us with abundant energy, growth, fun-filled activities, and meaningful connections. As the days grow longer and nature reaches its full bloom under the intense sun, the Fire element, as it relates to us, supports our bodies with vitality, joy, and hopefully, our capacity to show love for one another and the universe at large.
Each element in Chinese medicine is associated with what are known as meridians or channels, which are named after specific organs. The Summer/Fire element consists of the heart and the small intestine organs. The fire element is primarily governed by the heart. In Chinese medicine, the heart is the ruler or emperor of our organs. The heart may represent our relationship to ourselves and to others. In Chinese medicine, the heart houses the “Shen” (mind/spirit). Just as in Western medicine, Chinese medicine also views the heart as the governor of blood circulation. Keeping the heart and the small intestine in balance, especially this time of year, is essential to one’s health. An imbalance in these channels can potentially lead to insomnia, anxiety, emotional volatility, and the heart organ itself can have palpitations or other heart-related issues.
Emotional and Mental Well-being in Summer: The Balance of the Fire Element Gives Rise to.
- Joy, Love, Connection
- Enthusiasm and Inspiration
- Spiritual Awareness and Shen Clarity
When the Fire Element is imbalanced:
- Insomnia or Restlessness
- Anxiety, Mania, Apathy
- Excessive speaking or disconnection in communication
- Excessive sweating
Practices to support the Heart/Fire element/Shen:
- Meditation and Mindfulness Meditation (especially heart-centered)
- Qi Gong (many forms specifically for the Heart) and early morning is best
- Spend time with heartfelt connections of family and friends
- Spending time outdoors.
- Acupuncture
Dietary Recommendations for Summer/Fire Element:
- Cooling fruits and Vegetables: Watermelon, Cantaloup, Oranges, berries, Cucumbers, Lettuce, Mint, Mung beans, Bok choy, Peas, Kale, Arugula
- Lightly cooked foods, raw veggies etc.
Avoid these foods:
- Excessive spicy, greasy, or deep fried foods.
- Overconsumption of iced drinks (too cold will impair digestion).
Lifestyle and Guidance for the Season:
- Wake up early and go to sleep a little later-mirror the environment and its longer days
- Socialize and engage in joyful connections, being mindful to avoid overstimulation.
- Practice heart-nourishing activities, such as using music, laughter, and service.
- Exercise mindfully so as not to overheat. Morning/evening, and moderation is key.
- Qi Gong for the heart. Many different styles that can focus on opening movements and breath to circulate the Shen, Qi, creating balance and harmony in the body and mind.
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In Eastern Medicine, balance is the key to health. Aligning with the rhythms of nature and her seasons, (now summer and Fire) and incorporating balance practices such as acupuncture, diet, lifestyle, Qi Gong, and meditation, we can keep the heart open and the Shen at peace and harmony.
“As fire gives warmth and light, so should our hearts give love and clarity.”
—Author Unknown—
