A TCM Reflection on Summer ☀️

Today is the 21st of December — the Summer Solstice here in the Southern Hemisphere, the longest day of the year.

The sun lingers, the days feel endless, and there’s a certain brightness in the air that invites movement, celebration, and openness.

Even though the calendar marks the beginning of summer on the 1st of December, to me, summer truly starts today — when the light stretches the furthest and nature is at its most expressive. It’s a time to expand, connect, and live more outwardly.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), summer is ruled by the Fire element and associated with the Heart — not just the physical organ, but the Shen, our spirit and consciousness. It’s a season of expansion, joy, vitality, and connection. The long, warm days invite us to be more social, expressive, and vibrant.

But just as Fire can warm and illuminate, it can also overheat and consume. Summer is also a time to be mindful of balance — especially if you’re prone to restlessness, insomnia, irritability, or emotional overwhelm.

As yang energy reaches its peak at the solstice, a subtle turning begins — yin starts to grow again. Even as the days remain hot, the balance begins to shift.

Summer Tips from a TCM Perspective

Stay Cool (But Not Cold):
Avoid icy drinks, which can shock your digestive system. Opt for room-temperature water or cooling herbal teas like mint, chrysanthemum, or hibiscus.

Eat Light & Seasonal:
Enjoy hydrating summer foods — cucumber, watermelon, tomatoes, zucchini, and leafy greens — that naturally cool the body and support digestion.

Pause During Peak Heat:
In ancient times, people would rest or nap briefly at midday when the sun is at its highest. Even 10–15 minutes of quiet can help your nervous system reset.

Balance the Fire Element:
Feeling overheated, agitated, or scattered? Try acupressure on Heart 7 (Shenmen) — at the wrist crease under the pinky finger. This point is calming and supports emotional balance.

Connect — But Don’t Overextend:
Summer is for laughter and community — but don’t feel like you have to say yes to everything. Protect your energy and allow space for stillness, too.