The beginning of the Summer (LiXia 立夏) has quietly arrived, starting on Monday, 5th of May, according to the 24 Solar Terms in the Chinese Lunar Calendar.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Summer is the season when Yang energy reaches its peak, a time of expression, warmth, growth and activity. The Heart becomes especially active and also more vulnerable. Emotional excess, such as over-excitement, stress, or restlessness can disturb the Shen (Spirit), leading to insomnia, anxiety or palpitations.
Additionally, dampness and heat can burden the Spleen, often leading to loss of appetite, bloating, fatigue, and even eczema. To support digestion and balance internal damp-heat, dietary adjustments are crucial.
Here are some practical and inspired tips for the Beginning of Summer to help you transition smoothly into the warmer months, both physically and emotionally:
- Sleep early, wake early. Rise with the sun to align with the surge in Yang energy.
- Take a nap (20 mins) after lunch to nourish the heart and counter Summer fatigue.
- Avoid staying up late, which depletes Heart-yang and disrupts sleep quality.
- Keep your emotions balanced, avoid over-excitement, anger or sadness.
- Gentle activities like meditation, calligraphy, nature walks, journaling, or gently breathing exercises help calming the mind and regulate emotions.
- Strengthen the Spleen and dispel dampness with: Soups made with winter melon, barley, and lentils; a daily "ChenPi FuLing tea" (Dried tangerine peels and poria); "Four Gentlemen’s Porridge" which replenishes qi, and support weak digestion.
- If experiencing insomnia, dry mouth, irritability, or blood pressure fluctuations, try massaging the Neiguan (PC-6) or ShenMen (HT-7), it helps to calm the Shen and relieve palpitations.
- Make a porridge with Tai Zi Shen 15g (Pseudostellaria root), Lian Zi 15g (Lotus Seeds) and Suanzao Ren 10g (Wild Jujube Kernel) to nourish Heart and promote Qi and Yin.
- Exercise during cooler times (early morning or evening). Choose gentle movements such as Taichi, yogo, or brisk walking.
- Avoid excessive sweating, which can weaken Heart-Yang. Rehydrate with lightly salted water or cooling herbal teas like chrysanthemum or honeysuckle.
-After sweating, avoid chilly breeze. Carry a light scarf or shawl to cover your neck when entering air-conditioned spaces.
- Reconnect with nature. Spend time under trees, near rivers, or in gardens, tune in to the seasonal rhythms.
Living in harmony with the seasons is a fundamental principle of TCM. By aligning your lifestyle with nature's shifts, you can cultivate inner balance, resilience, and well-being, not just through Summer, but all year round.
Link:
Lunar Chinese Calendar:
https://www.yourchineseastrology.com/calendar/24-solar-terms.htm
