Summer Newsletter
Welcome to our Whole Health for Life Summer Newsletter, inspired by the principles of Chinese Medicine! In this edition, we’ll explore various aspects of summer health and provide tips on how to stay balanced and harmonious during this vibrant season.
Embracing the Fire Element: According to Chinese Medicine, summer corresponds to the Fire element, which governs the Heart and Small Intestine. It is a time of abundant energy, expansion, and joy. To nourish your Fire element, engage in activities that bring you happiness, such as spending time outdoors, cultivating relationships, and expressing creativity.
Balancing Heat and Hydration: Summer is characterized by heat, and it’s essential to balance it by keeping cool and staying hydrated. Opt for cooling foods like watermelon, cucumber, mint, and leafy greens. Drink plenty of fluids, including water, herbal teas, and electrolyte-rich beverages to replenish your body’s fluids and maintain a healthy internal environment.
Protecting Yin Energy: The summer season can be energetically draining, and it’s important to protect your Yin energy, which represents the body’s cooling and nourishing aspects. Avoid excessive heat exposure, overexertion, and late nights. Rest and recharge during the cooler parts of the day, prioritize quality sleep, and create a calming environment for relaxation.
Acupressure or acupuncture for Summer Ailments: Chinese Medicine utilizes acupressure to alleviate common summer ailments. Use pressure points like Hegu (LI4) for relieving heat-related headaches and Xinshu (BL15) for balancing heart energy. Consult an acupuncturist to learn more about specific acupressure points for your unique needs.
Harmonizing with Nature: Chinese Medicine emphasizes living in harmony with nature’s rhythms. During summer, embrace the Yang energy by waking up early, taking walks in the morning or evening, and practicing gentle exercises like Qi Gong or Tai Chi outdoors. Appreciate the natural world and immerse yourself in its beauty.
Mindful Eating: Incorporate seasonal, locally grown foods into your diet during summer. Include a variety of colors and flavors, and favor lighter, easily digestible meals. Avoid excessive consumption of greasy, heavy, or overly spicy foods that can burden digestion. Practice mindful eating, savoring each bite, and paying attention to your body’s signals of hunger and fullness.
Cultivating Emotional Well-being: Summer is a time of joy and expansive energy. Embrace positive emotions, cultivate gratitude, and express yourself creatively. However, be mindful of excessive excitement or overstimulation, which can lead to scattered energy. Engage in activities that promote emotional balance, such as meditation, journaling, or spending quality time with loved ones.
I also want to mention some new updates. Over the last few years I have been teaching qigong in person and online and have been incorporating meditation as part of my class. I am now certified as a mindfulness meditation teacher through Dharma Moon and Tibet House and will be offering meditation classes as well as one on one sessions. Mindfulness meditation can help people dealing with anxiety, feeling scattered, reactive, and overwhelmed. Qigong, which, is itself a mindfulness practice is an easy moving meditation for centering the mind and body.
Please reach out if you or someone you know might benefit from a qigong or meditation class.
Remember, these suggestions are general guidelines. Please reach out for personalized advice tailored to your specific constitution and health needs.
Wishing you a harmonious and vibrant summer filled with joy, wellness, and connection!
🌻 Stay Balanced and Thrive in the Summer! 🌻
warm regards,
Donna
Donna Bunte Whole Health
203-253-9885
