How to Deal with Summer
Too little or too much fire can manifest as depleted energy, anger, dehydration, disturbed spirits, increased infections, skin ailments, and sleeplessness. The seasonal affective disorder can also happen during summer.
One of the most important teachings of Chinese medicine is that there is a seamless continuum between the body and the environment around us.
The ancient Chinese developed practical methods to counteract the negative effects of this seasonal transition. If your fire element is not burning right this summer, we have some tips to help.
1. SLEEP IN A DARK SPACE
If your drapery in your bedroom is inadequate, consider a pair of silk eyeshades. It’s also good to take short naps during the longer days of summer, and rise earlier to catch the cool morning light.
2. WATCH OUT FOR EXCESSIVE SWEATING
Sweat belongs to the fluids of the heart according to Chinese Medicine theory and excessive sweating damages your heart's yin energy. How does this damage manifest? Other than dehydration, you might start feeling restless and have trouble getting a full night's rest. Workout to a mild sweat and make sure to hydrate adequately.
3. EAT LIGHT
This is the season to indulge in summer crops. Cool off from summer heat with melons and stone fruit that are packed with flavors and juice. If you have excessive heat going on (thirst, irritability), it might be a good idea to add bitter-tasting vegetables such as arugula, watercress, and bitter melon to your diet. Try a cucumber and herb sandwich to keep things light and fresh.
4. AVOID DRAFTS AND REDUCE USE OF AC
As much as the cool air feels so refreshing on a hot and muggy day, prolonged exposure to air-conditioning can lead to headaches, dry skin, respiratory issues and general malaise. If you are often indoors, ensure your carpeting and drapery is clean, and invite plenty of fresh air into the room.
5. REFRAIN FROM ANGER
“Let the mind have no anger, and things will blossom beautifully.” - Su Wen
Anger generates more heat, instead of taking the opportunity to cultivate mindfulness and compassion towards yourself and others. If you encounter a situation where you’re likely to blow up when speaking up, say nothing at all. “Silence is sometimes the best answer.” - Dalai Lama.
“Go to rest late at night and rise early. Never get enough of the sun.” The days of Summer are longer than that of all the other seasons.
This is because Summer is the greatest Yang of all the seasons. Certainly, sleep and rest are important keys to health. However, the active nature of Summer means that we should also be more active. Summer is the time to be outside in the sun, and to be more physically active. It is the time of year that we can get away with less sleep (still remembering to always strike a balance based on our individual levels of health). Since the weather is good, Summer is also the natural time for vacation and travel.