This comprehensive self-care guide tailored for summer covers the seasonal perspective, including the associated color and taste, dietary recommendations, and simple home remedies.
SUMMER HEART
The Heart houses the mind (Shen) and controls the blood vessels. It’s responsible for mental clarity, emotional stability, and sleep quality.
IN BALANCE:
A balanced Heart results in a joyous disposition, strong spirit, clear mind, and good memory. You’ll feel sociable, content, and connected.
OUT OF BALANCE:
Imbalance can lead to anxiety, insomnia, restlessness, or lack of joy. Physically, you might experience palpitations, shortness of breath, or cold hands and feet.
SUMMER SELF CARE GUIDE
Summer is the season of maximum Yang, where warmth, growth, and activity reach their peak. It’s a time of joy, expansion, and connecting with the abundance of life, reflecting the Fire element in Chinese medicine, which governs the heart and small intestine.
SUMMER COLORS – THE VIBRANCY OF RED:
Red, the color of the Fire element, symbolizes the warmth and joy of summer. Embrace red in your meals, clothing, and surroundings to connect with the season’s vibrant energy.
TASTE OF JOY – THE BITTER FLAVOR:
Bitter flavors can cool the heart and calm the spirit, balancing the intense Yang of summer. Incorporate foods like kale, arugula, and bitter melon into your diet.
TASTE OF RENEWAL – THE SOUR FLAVOR:
Incorporate sour flavors into your diet to support your Liver. A squeeze of lemon in your water, a dash of vinegar in your salad, or other tangy delights can help maintain a healthy Qi flow.
NOURISHING SUMMER FOODS:
STAY COOL:
Enjoy cooling foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and mint to balance the summer heat.
LIGHT MEALS:
Opt for salads, fruits, and light proteins to keep your energy levels balanced and avoid overheating.
HYDRATION IS KEY:
Drink plenty of fluids, especially water and herbal teas, to stay hydrated during the hot summer days.
