According to holistic sources from the east, our bodies reflect, and are always in coordination with the forces present in nature. As the seasons shift, our internal environment must also shift to cooperate with the world around us. There are many examples of humans doing this in a most natural way. We tend to be more active in the summer. Not only because for most of us that means nice weather, but because we ourselves are more open and expanded with our energy. According to the 5-Phase Theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Summer is the season of Fire and the organs of the Heart and Small Intestine. These organs produce the fires that help us metabolize and transform our food into energy, and our experiences into memories and impressions we use to identify our existence through. Our small intestine is the main organ of nutrient absorption in our digestive system. The heart spreads and expands the nutrient rich blood to our tissues and cells. In eastern philosophy the heart also is related to the functions of the mind (rather than the brain which is thought to be the organ responsible for the faculties of thought and emotion in the west) and through the heart we metabolize and express our emotions, thoughts and feelings.
In the summer it is best to engage in lifestyle habits that help to support and balance the expansion of our energy. It is naturally a time to expand your horizons. Go on a trip or an adventure, try a new hobby or take a class. Now is the time when we are naturally open and connections to fulfillment in our external world are easy to notice and access. It is also a great time to see projects coming to fruition. Since there is so much energy, many find that less sleep is needed and we may have access to an abundance of energy. With all the energy and excitement, however, burnout is possible. While we want to flow with this expressive time, it is also important that we balance our bodies with food and activities that are cooling and nourishing. It is the perfect time of the year to take that afternoon nap. One caveat to the summer nap rule, it is not advised right after a heavy meal, even though it may be greatly desired. When not engaged in activity spend extra time resting the mind, going easy on the body, and taking time to enjoy life.
Take a morning or evening walk to enjoy all the beauty that nature is sharing with us in the summertime.
Dietary considerations to balance with the summer are as follows. Most constitutions will incorporate more fresh, cooling and hydrating foods like salads, fruits, juices, and vibrantly colored vegetables. If raw foods are not advised for your constitution, lightly cooked vegetables sautéed at high heat, or steamed for a short time with ample water can replace salads. Additionally, soups (particularly mung bean) are a great option. Soups, hot teas and lightly spicy foods can all be helpful for releasing excess heat from the body by promoting sweating. Though this may seem counterintuitive, spicy meals, hot drinks and showers initially produce more heat, but by moving the heat to the surface (sweating) naturally disperse it, cooling the body which can provide great relief for those that run hot.
Heavy foods such as fried food, dairy, meat, excess of grains, nuts and seeds should all be greatly limited during the summer as they can lead to sluggishness and digestive issues. It is also recommended to avoid cold or frozen drinks in the summer (what??? I know... right?), which hinder the digestive system in several ways including decreasing nutrient absorption and assimilation. Cold drinks cause contraction which holds the heat in our digestive system. This can lead to excess heat in these organs causing problems such as heartburn, vomiting, diarrhea and more. Don't believe me? Just pay attention to how your digestive system feels after eating an ice cream shake or drinking that strawberry daiquiri (just saying). Most of us are not ascetic monks, so live life... moderation is key. Stick to eating less, choosing a lighter fare and plenty of hydrating fluids instead. Your digestive system will thank you!
At the end of August, we shift into the Late Summer which is related to our Spleen, Stomach and Pancreas and the Earth element. It is a much more settled time, where the flow of energy in the world shifts from expanding to contracting. Late summer is a time of abundance, right before the harvest we see all the fruits of our labors. This is a time when the days seem to be endless and everything takes a break to enjoy the moment. As this time approaches, it is best to start to slow things down, take a step back and absorb all the abundant life around us. Life, activities and foods we consume start to become milder helping mind and body wind down after Summer and before the dynamic shift into the Fall begins. See if you can notice this shift in your life, from a more active and dynamic pace to that of tranquility and peace. If you have trouble finding the latter, it’s the perfect time to connect with a grounding practice like meditation or yoga (hatha or yin). More on the Late Summer and its related energies to come in September so stay tuned!
Follow these helpful tips to stay balanced through the rest of the summer.
Balancing Pitta (Fire/Water elements):
Favor raw and lightly cooked foods, include plenty of fruit and leafy greens.
Avoid dense and heavy foods, fried foods and most dairy (exceptions).
Enjoy physical activities that are leisurely, non-competitive and relaxing.
Limit activities that require maximal effort or require a high level of exertion.
Drink lots of water! If tolerable incorporate coconut and coconut oil in diet/skin-care.
Limit excess use of alcohol, tobacco and other stimulants.
Supporting Heart and Small Intestine Energy:
Take opportunities to rest the mind with a daily meditation or movement practice.
Go to sleep before 12 a.m., rise early, and take rest if possible during midday hours.
Eat your largest meal between 11 and 3 p.m. (Heart/SI most active at this time)
Limit cold drinks and foods that diminish digestive fires and inhibit nutrient absorption
Acknowledge a sense of compassion in how you relate to others.
Remain present to your emotions and observe reactions that may be excessive.
Connecting with the Season:
Make plenty of time for adventure and fun, but go easy on yourself and your schedule.
Activities are much more stimulating during this time of year
Spend your time outside in the Kapha times (7-11 a.m. & p.m.) to balance the intensity of the daytime hours and sun.
Observe the abundance of energy around you and in your life.
Repeat any intention daily and observe the natural process through which it begins to manifest.
If you want to learn more about Holistic Health, book a complimentary consultation with Brian HERE today!
If you are interested in learning about some easy poses, movements, and meditations that embody this summer spirit, join me at AIR Lincoln Park on Sunday 8/19 for a special Summer Ayurvedic AIR Flow. Sign up for this workshop HERE today, space is limited!