Summer Solstice!
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As we passed the summer solstice on June 21st, I thought it would be helpful to explain how summer is viewed in Five Element acupuncture/Chinese theory and how understanding it can help us live fuller lives. What is interesting is that while in some calendars, this marks the start of summer, in the Chinese calendar, this is actually the height of summer (and the height of yang energy)! One of the tenets of Chinese medicine, is that we should always, in order to live the most healthy and fruitful life, live according to the seasons. Summer is a time of joy and laughter. It is a time to travel and spend time with friends and family, often feeling the warmth of the sun on your skin. One of the underlying principles of acupuncture is that our bodies are a microcosm of the world, meaning we mimic what is happening in the natural world. It is natural for us to be social and have more energy in the summer because that is a reflection of the current environment. Yang is at its peak so we will experience this in our own bodies as well. Summer in Five Element Theory: Element: Fire Emotion: Joy/ Excitement Organ/Official: Heart/Small Intestine Taste: Bitter Color: Red It's a time to wake up early, enjoy the sunshine, and take advantage of the extra energy both we and the natural world have. It is a time to eat more fresh bright colored foods, eat chocolate (bitter), avoid very cold foods and drinks, and reduce your salt intake. It is always important to strike a balance, however, so don't overdo anything... if you do, you will notice the results in a season or two - There is a giant cycle that we are part of, and yin flows into yang and yang flows into yin. Tend to your heart- connect with people but don't give into excess- this will show up as anxiety, insomnia, sores in the mouth, etc... An acupuncture tune-up can be a great way to make sure all is in balance- that joy and warmth are flowing freely while still maintaining a grounded sense of being. Ahhh summer 😎