Surviving Summer months with TCM
Summer falls under the Fire element in Five Element theory – it is the time where Yang energy is at its peak and Yin recedes in comparison - days are hottest and longest, and nights are shorter and warmer too.
During this time of year people naturally trend towards more Yang activities – getting outside, being more social, craving new activities and experiences. It is important especially during this time of year to equally make time for Yin activities. This could look like –
Gentle activity like Yin yoga or walks – ideally once the sun is going down
Taking time to do a restful creative hobby like painting, puzzles, or sidewalk chalk – these are especially great when caring for the little bundles of Yang energy that are children on summer break
Making time to lounge by the pool or ocean
Taking a needed vacation or staycation
Any intentional rest is so necessary to our overall wellbeing and is easily overlooked when life ramps up in the summer.
While those of us who run cold may thrive in the increased heat of summer months, Heat in excess can be seen as a pathogen in TCM, and has a tendency to aggravate preexisting Heat or Damp conditions - making us feel more irritable, sluggish, or increasing digestive issues. Furthermore, Heat in excess consumes Yin and fluids, which can leave us feeling agitated, dehydrated, or exhausted.
Beyond taking part in more Yin activities during these months, we can support Yin and cool excess Heat in the body with food choices. If you are finding that you are running hotter this time of year, and especially if you are spending the day in the sun, consider incorporating these hydrating and cooling foods this season:
Watermelon
Peppermint tea
Radishes
Cucumber
Mung beans/Sprouts
Below is my personal favorite Cooling Noodles Recipe that is easy to make ahead of time and filled with hydrating, nourishing, and cooling ingredients. Another thing I like about this recipe – there are no measurements – tinker with the sauce ingredients until it is the consistency and flavor you like, enjoy!
Cold noodles recipe
Ginger, garlic, chives – acrid, Qi moving, warming - will warm the recipe slightly so while it is cooling it is not so harsh on the Spleen (easily damaged by cold)
Soy sauce – cooling, salty, nourishes Kidney Yin
Sesame paste – hydrating, nourishes Yin
Radish – cooling, drains damp which the body often makes in response to Heat
Carrots – cooling, nourishing to the Liver
Buckwheat noodles – nutritionally dense, good for supporting Qi and Blood, pair best with cold sauces and broths
Top with black sesame seeds – nourish Kidney Yin
