Written by Lucinda Curran
Initially published in SevenCanaries
Much of the underlying precepts of Chinese medicine are about living in harmony with nature, synching with the ebb and flow of life, and the movement through the seasons.
In stark contrast, modern life is very much removed from nature. Our homes are warm in winter, cool in summer, we go from home to work, living busy lives within our built environments.
We protect ourselves from the outside world and no longer allow the influences of nature to shape our lives.
However, through its deep understanding of the natural world and its relationship to all life, Chinese medicine can provide much insight…
Summer = Yang
Yang energy builds during spring to peak in summer, resulting in more energy to enjoy the long, bright days, outdoor life and activities.
It is all about movement, expression and extroversion. Yang is bright, light and active – a time to retire late and rise early, express the new you, show your colours and spread some joy in the world.
The Fire Element
Relating to the Fire element, Summer is associated with the colour red, the heart and small intestine and the emotion of joy.
Fire cannot exist on its own, it relies on fuel and air to thrive. Hence, the Fire element defines summer as an ideal time to socialise and connect with others.
The Fire element is also about inspiration. In Australia, Summer coincides with New Year making this the perfect time to set new goals for yourself, reflect back on the past year and decide what you would like to change. Think “big picture,” and aim for this, placing stepping-stones in the direction towards the life that you want to lead, the person who you truly are.
Summer Food
Food is important in Summer, as it is the rest of the year. It is good to always eat seasonally and locally to assist your body in adapting to each season.
Summer is abundant in melons, stone fruits and amazing vegetables. They are Yang foods – and epitomise the season.
Think first before you delight in them all – could you grow this in your backyard? If the answer is “yes,” then enjoy. If not, then resist the temptation and look for an alternative that can be grown close to home.
Chinese medicine considers food differently to Western medicine. It not only looks at the nutrient content, it also takes into account flavours and temperatures.
The flavour associated with the Fire element is bitter. A small amount of the correct flavour helps to bring balance to the diet, although too much can be weakening, so aim to add a small amount of bitter food to your diet every day throughout summer.
Bitter foods include:
- Grains: rye
- Vegetables: lettuce, romaine, chicory, rocquette (arugula)
- Fruit: rhubarb
- Herbs and spices: fenugreek
- Nuts and seeds: cherry seeds
Cooling foods balance the heat of Summer. Salads, fresh seasonal fruits, cucumber and, of course, watermelon. Chinese medicine considers watermelon to be ‘cold,’ it is useful to clear excessive heat, and best enjoyed on scorching hot summer days.
The best cooking method for Summer reflects the season well – stir-frying over a high heat to add the heat, energy or activity of the season.
Enjoy your Summer!
Summer is about becoming inspired, expressing yourself, engaging with others, and taking an active part in the world. It brings joy and activity into your life. It provides us with delicious foods – especially those sweet intoxicating stone fruits.
Despite the activity of the season, it is still necessary to have some “me time” each day – be that by watching the sunset, enjoying your favourite cup of tea, cuddling with a loved one, reading a book or watching the clouds drift overhead … and don’t forget good quality rest to keep up with this busy, active time.
Summer is the season to enjoy life fully and all the abundance it has to offer.
