Summer in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) ☀️🔥

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Summer is the most Yang season, full of heat, activity, and expansion. It is associated with the Fire element, which governs the Heart and Small Intestine. This is a time of joy, social connection, and outward energy, but also a season where excess heat can cause imbalances.

1. Energy & Emotional Changes

• Summer is the peak of Yang energy—active, bright, and warm.

• The Heart governs joy, love, and connection—imbalances may cause restlessness, anxiety, or overstimulation.

• It’s a great time for socializing, adventure, and self-expression, but avoid burnout!

• Excess heat can cause irritability, insomnia, or agitation—cooling and balancing practices are key.

2. Organ Focus: Heart & Small Intestine

• The Heart governs blood circulation, emotions, and mental clarity.

• The Small Intestine helps digest and absorb nutrients while sorting what is useful versus waste.

• Imbalances in Summer can manifest as:

  • Overheating (hot flashes, excessive sweating, heatstroke)

  • Restlessness, insomnia, or difficulty focusing

  • Palpitations or irregular heartbeat

  • Digestive issues (acid reflux, bloating, indigestion)

  • Skin irritations (rashes, redness, acne, sunburns)

3. Dietary Adjustments for Summer 🥗🍉

   
   

   In Summer, the focus is on hydrating, cooling, and light foods that help balance heat and support digestion.

   
   

   Best Foods for Summer:

   
   

   ✔ Cooling & Hydrating Foods (clear heat & nourish fluids):

   • Watermelon 🍉, cucumbers 🥒, lettuce, celery

   • Mint, chrysanthemum tea 🌿

   • Coconut water 🥥

     
     

   ✔ Bitter Foods (support the Heart and clear excess heat):

   • Bitter melon, dandelion greens, arugula 🥬

   • Green tea 🍵

     
     

   ✔ Light & Easily Digestible Foods (support Small Intestine):

   • Summer vegetables: zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes 🍅

   • Whole grains (quinoa, millet, brown rice)

     
     

   ✔ Slightly Pungent & Warming Foods (promote circulation):

   • Ginger, scallions, basil, cayenne (in moderation)

     
     

   🚫 Avoid heavy, greasy, or overly spicy foods, which can create excess internal heat.

   🚫 Limit ice-cold drinks, as they shock the digestive system (drink fluids at room temperature).

4. Exercise & Movement in Summer 🏃‍♂️🏊‍♀️

• Move with the season’s energy! Engage in more vigorous activities, but don’t overheat.

• Best exercises for Summer:

  • Swimming 🏊‍♂️ (cooling and great for circulation)

  • Outdoor activities: hiking, cycling, beach walks 🚴‍♂️

  • Dancing or group sports 🕺⚽ (enhances Heart energy)

  • Morning yoga or Tai Chi to balance Yang & prevent overstimulation.

• Avoid intense midday workouts, as excessive sweating can weaken the body.

5. Lifestyle Adjustments for Summer 🌞

• Wake up early & stay active—Summer is about expansion and joy.

• Stay hydrated to prevent dehydration and overheating.

• Enjoy social time, but balance it with quiet moments to prevent overstimulation.

• Protect yourself from excessive heat & sun—wear loose clothing, stay cool, and avoid prolonged sun exposure.

• Practice mindfulness & relaxation to keep the Heart calm.

Key Takeaways for Summer in TCM ☀️

✔ Support the Heart & Small Intestine

✔ Eat hydrating, cooling, & light foods

✔ Stay active but avoid overheating

✔ Balance social connection with quiet moments

✔ Hydrate & protect against excessive heat

Book Your Acupuncture Session & Find Your Elemental Balance 🌿✨

Are you experiencing any of these imbalances? Instead of pushing through discomfort, TCM helps you listen to your body and make adjustments before bigger health issues arise.

At Evidence Acupuncture with Leanne Hutton, you’ll receive a personalized treatment plan based on your unique elemental imbalances, guiding you back to harmony and optimal well-being.

📅 Book your acupuncture session today and take the first step toward feeling your best!

💻 Book here | 📞 Call: +61 411 307 433