Now that the weather is warmer and we are comfortably into Summer, it’s a good time to pause and reflect on the Traditional Chinese Medical (TCM) view of seasons, seasonal changes, and how these shifts affect our bodies. In TCM the summertime is represented by the fire element, which controls the Heart and Small Intestine (both the organs and the meridian systems). The associated emotion is joy, and the energy is expansive, full of heat, growth, and movement. Think of how you feel when you are joyful; it often radiates up and out of our bodies, expanding and affecting those around us. This is the energy that Summer brings.
The Heart, according to TCM, is the “Emperor” of all organs. Its role is to govern blood circulation (organ function) and house the Shen, or the mental/emotional spirit (meridian function). Summer is a great time to foster relationships that bring you joy to nourish this concept of the Shen and our spirit. When we expand this energy outward and connect with those we love, our Shen flourishes.
The Heart’s partner organ is the Small Intestine. Its role in terms of its organ function is to separate the turbid from the clear, to absorb nutrients and let pass things that our bodies do not need. This is also the case in a more esoteric sense, in terms of its meridian function, which is decision making. Let the meridian energy of the small intestine help you to separate the nebulous from the clear, and let anything that no longer serves you just fade away. In this way, the energy of summer and the Small Intestine can guide you into letting go of what no longer helps you on your journey.
Through all of this joyful and expansive energy, however, make sure to not overexert. In cultivating these joyful relationships, be sure to take some time to reflect and rest. In a practical sense, the heat of summer can easily lead to heat stroke and loss of fluids, so make sure to hydrate and rest in a cool spot as needed (A great way to care for yourself during the heat is to pop into SRCA for an acupuncture treatment! It’s always nice and cool in the treatment room, come see us and take a rest–with or without the heat lamps!).
In addition to acupuncture, staying hydrated and working more cooling foods into your diet is great for summer health and harmony. The good news is that one of the best ways to hydrate is by eating watermelon! This tasty summer treat is packed with electrolytes and is chock full of vitamins A, C, and B6, which are all essential for heart health, making it the super star fruit of the summer (see below for a watermelon salad recipe).
One of the fantastic things about summer is the availability of fresh fruits and veggies. It’s easy to eat appropriately for the summer just by heading to your local farmer’s market and picking up fresh produce. Other cooling foods available this time of year include cucumber, mung beans, and mint. Try adding cucumber and/or mint to your water, or sprout some mung beans for a tasty salad topper. For cooling proteins, try tofu or pork, and cooling grains include barley or millet.
No matter what the season, TCM focuses on taking everything in moderation. The expansiveness of joy must be balanced by rest and inward reflection. Cooling foods can be balanced by adding some black pepper or fennel seed to your salad dressings. Stay cool and hydrated, take time to rest and relax, and make space for things that bring you joy this Summer (and enjoy the watermelon salad recipe below!). We can’t wait to see you at your next visit!
Watermelon Arugula Salad
For the Dressing
¼ cup freshly squeezed orange juice
¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
¼ cup minced shallots
1 tablespoon honey or agave nectar
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
For the Salad
6 cups baby arugula
3 cups cubed watermelon
8 ounces crumbled feta cheese (optional)
1 cup finely chopped fresh mint leaves
Instructions
Whisk together the orange juice, lemon juice, shallots, honey/agave nectar, and salt. Slowly pour in the olive oil, whisking constantly, to form an emulsion. If not using within an hour, transfer the dressing to an airtight container or lidded jar and refrigerate.
Place the arugula, watermelon, feta (if using), and mint in a large bowl. Drizzle with enough vinaigrette to coat the greens lightly and toss well. Adjust seasoning to taste and enjoy!