Summer Balance: A TCM Approach to Staying Cool, Calm, and Connected

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), summer is more than just a warm season—it’s a time of expansion, joy, and connection. Governed by the Fire element, summer relates to the Heart and Small Intestine, both responsible for circulation, clarity, and emotional wellness.

Summer’s energy encourages us to be outward and expressive. It’s the season of the Shen, or spirit, which resides in the Heart. When balanced, the Shen allows us to experience peace, joy, and meaningful relationships. However, excessive heat—both environmental and emotional—can disrupt this harmony, leading to irritability, insomnia, restlessness, or digestive issues.

So how do we stay in balance during the hottest months of the year?

1. Acupuncture for Heart and Heat

Summer treatments often focus on clearing internal heat and calming the mind. Certain acupuncture points can be used:

• To nourish the Heart and promote restful sleep

• To soothe anxiety and regulate emotional energy

• To support digestion and boost energy

These treatments help restore balance and prevent seasonal imbalances from becoming chronic conditions.

2. Cooling Foods and Herbal Support

Diet is one of the easiest ways to harmonize with summer. Favor cooling, hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumber, leafy greens, and mung beans. Avoid greasy, spicy, or heavily fried foods that generate internal heat.

Herbal teas featuring chrysanthemum (Ju Hua), mint (Bo He), or green tea can gently cool the body while supporting clarity and focus. For emotional unrest or poor sleep, calming herbs like Suan Zao Ren (Ziziphus) and Bai Zi Ren (Biota) are commonly used in TCM to anchor the Shen.

3. Mindful Movement and Joyful Living

While summer is active and bright, moderation is key. Exercise in the cooler hours—early morning or evening—to avoid overheating. Activities like Tai Chi, walking, or swimming help circulate Qi without exhausting your reserves.

Embrace social connection, creativity, and laughter—this is Heart medicine in action. At the same time, build in quiet moments to center yourself through meditation or breathwork.

In TCM, health is seasonal. By living in harmony with summer’s Fire energy, we can experience the season’s gifts—vitality, joy, and spiritual connection—without burning out. Stay balanced, stay hydrated, and let your spirit shine.