Late Summer: Season of Sustenance and Balance

“The earth element regulates the center that which is constant, from where it harmonizes the effects of the four seasons.”  - Yellow Emperor’s Inner Classics

As the busy and bright yang energy of summer days begin to wind down, we enter the last warm days of summer, called Late Summer. In Chinese Medicine, Late Summer is called the “fifth season,” a time of balance of both the Yang and Yin energies. It is in the center - balancing the other four seasons – a time of transformation and harvest. 

In Late Summer, you can see the light changing as days become shorter and the sun sets earlier. The mornings are cooler. It can be a nice respite from the hot and humid days of summer. Some may be tempted to resist this change, but this fifth season helps us slow down so we may nurture the inward and reflective energies of approaching autumn and winter.

Our bodies and mind are naturally attuned to the natural cycle of growth (Spring), ripening (Summer), harvest (Fall), and rest (Winter). In ancient times people followed the seasonal rhythm more naturally. In modern times we can bring mindful attention and observation to the world around us and allow it to guide us into well-being.

The philosophy of Chinese Medicine teaches us that living according to the cycles of the seasons and in harmony with the natural world can help us feel our best and balance our body, mind, and spirit.

The Five Elements:

According to Chinese Medicine, the Five Elements, or perhaps more aptly, 5 phases, are a method by which we can explain the manifestations of this world. Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water help us define our relationship to the physical world, the spiritual world, and the connections within our own bodies. They describe the flow of Qi (vital force) in all things within the natural world and within us. In balance, these elements help us live in harmony with the cycles of nature. In right-relationship to their flexible and ever-changing co-existence we can achieve optimal health.

In Chinese Medicine, Late Summer corresponds to the Earth element. The Earth element is associated with the Spleen-Pancreas and Stomach organ systems. In Chinese Medicine, the Spleen is responsible for turning the food we eat into the Qi and Blood that is then distributed through our body, nourishing our body, mind, and spirit. The Spleen, also, houses the “Yi”, the spirit which gives us the ability to have conscious awareness, think clearly, and focus.  

The Stomach governs the “ripening” and “rotting” of our food so that the spleen can then distribute the Qi and Blood. Both the Spleen and the Stomach, working in tandem, are responsible for energy production, metabolism, immunity, and mental-emotional health. The Spleen and Stomach organ systems include the mouth and lips and are responsible for muscle tissue.

The color associated with these systems is yellow, and the primary emotional association is one of contemplation, connectedness, and centeredness. When these systems are imbalanced, we often overthink and worry obsessively.

Some of the most common symptoms associated with Spleen/Stomach imbalances are: anemia, belching, bloating, constipation/ diarrhea, food allergies, gas, indigestion, low appetite, low body weight, hemorrhoids, menstrual issues, nausea, obesity, overthinking and obsessive worry, stomach aches, strong appetite, sores in the mouth, stomach ulcers, and water retention.

While nourishing our bodies in a healthy manner year-round is important, the Earth element is most active and most vulnerable during the Late Summer, and this is an opportune time to nourish and strengthen the Spleen and Stomach organ systems to boost our physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Grounding in Late Summer:

Add Warming Foods - A balanced nourishing real food diet is always important but even more so during this time of year. The Spleen organ system likes warm nourishing foods. Begin to move away from cold and raw foods, refined sugars, and grains, as well as rich and greasy foods. These can all create dampness in the Spleen, which interferes with the Spleen’s ability to transform food into your vital energy. Add warm, cooked foods with seasonal vegetables and grains. Add aromatic spices like ginger, fennel, caraway, cardamom, cinnamon, and coriander to warm the digestion and resolve dampness.

Incorporate a Warm Breakfast - Spleen and Stomach energy are at their peak from 7AM-11AM. Breaking your fast within this time with a warm and nourishing breakfast will set the tone for the whole day. Move away from refined cereals and eat warm whole grain porridge made from oats, millet, or rice instead. Congee, a rice porridge eaten at least once a week for breakfast in China to support the digestive system and boost the immune system, is also a great choice. See a recipe on my blog.

Enjoy “Sweet” Flavors - The Spleen organ system is nurtured by “sweet” flavors. The sweet flavor allows for energy to move up and out, is harmonizing, and creates a relaxing feeling. In Chinese medicine sweet foods build the “yin” of the body – blood, tissues, muscles, and fluids. The best sweet flavor foods are in the form of complex carbohydrates such as grains, vegetables, and legumes. Did you know that in Chinese Medicine most meats and dairy products are also considered sweet in nature? They are highly tonifying and beneficial to those with a weaker constitution. A balanced combination of all these foods, in moderation, creates a healthy body and mind.

Surround Yourself with Yellow and Orange - Yellow and orange are the colors of the Spleen and Stomach. They are the colors of the sun. In Chinese culture, yellow is the color of longevity. Brighten your home with textiles, apparel, plants, and flowers to bring a feeling of comfort and warmth. Eat yams, pumpkins, seasonal squashes, carrots, yellow peppers, mangoes, apricots, yellow melons, papaya, and tomatoes.

Nurture your Center - When the Earth element is imbalanced, we find ourselves lacking defined boundaries, overextending ourselves with too many commitments, and generally looking outside of ourselves for validation. Making time for self is essential. Taking care of our own needs may not always be easy, but it can be transformative. Establishing clear boundaries and learning to say “no” with confidence is a healthy practice. The more we care for ourselves the more we can feel grounded, tolerant, and centered.

Cultivate your Breath - Deep breathing increases blood flow and slows down the whole nervous system. Take a moment to connect with your body and befriend your breath. Follow your own natural rhythm. Place one hand below your navel and one hand on the center of the abdomen, take a deep breath in through your nose, allow your belly to rise with your inhalation, pause, and slowly exhale from your mouth, allow your belly to fall, pause. Repeat 9-12 times to get the most benefit. Stay open, observe, and practice awareness.

Sing from your Heart - The sound related to the Earth element is singing. Singing with others, or, even alone in the shower, supports balance of the Spleen and Stomach. Practice breathing out a gentle and mindful “whoo” at any time to help declutter the mind and find balance.

Seek Preventative Care - The transition to fall and winter may not be easy, especially in these trying times. Pandemic-related uncertainty, worrying about our own health and that of those we care for, getting the kids back to school in a safe manner, and navigating changes in work schedules, all mean that nurturing our own health is of the utmost importance. 

Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs can be a part of your self-care journey and can help you nourish and strengthen your digestive/immune systems, and support in the relief of worry and stress. Schedule a seasonal tune-up soon for Late Summer by booking an appointment here.