Like the energies of the earth, the energies of our bodies follow the same pattern of inward movement in the Fall, downward in Winter, upward in Spring and outward in Summer. Spring and summer are a time for more movement, activity, elimination and detoxification. In the five-elements tradition, the fire element is associated with the heart and Small Intestine, Summer, the color red, and the associated pathogen is heat or fire. Ailments that commonly manifest in the summer are heat, damp-heat and dryness related but as the climate in the Northwest is so moderate we tend to feel pretty good in the summer months. Insomnia and exhaustion can occur from being so active during these long days. If we try to cool down with too much icy-cold foods the digestive system will be weakened.

Our energies are moving outward in the summertime, both with increased physical activity and through sweating and detoxification. Avoid heavy, rich, and fatty foods which will slow the elimination process. For those with weak digestion it is important to not eat too much icy cold food and drinks. A summertime habit of iced drinks and ice cream can impact you in the cold months when your reserve of warming Yang energies is needed most. Warming, spicy foods, soup and tea will aid in cooling you down by inducing a bit of a sweat, improve circulation and detoxification, and tonify your Yang energies. Avoid over-doing the spicy foods though, as inducing too much sweat can be depleting as well.

To make the most out of each season it makes sense to eat what is local and seasonal. The fresh fruits of summer are perfect but try to have them at room temperature and have fresh salads, but with something warm and cooked to help give you the heat to digest it. Cook foods lightly as possible. The flavors that have an upward and outward movement are pungent and sweet, and bitter is a good flavor for clearing heat.

With prevention in mind, it is always a good idea to think of the season ahead to prepare for what it will bring. Summer is the season to work on boosting your immune system to be ready for the coming cold and flu season. Summer is the season of abundant Yang energy and is the ideal time to nourish our warming energies. I was taught that the time to strengthen Yang is when it is at it’s fullest, just as it is easier to bring water to a boil when it is already warm.

To maximize good digestion allow your meal times to be only about eating- turn off the TV, put down the book and keep conversation to more peaceful topics. Take your meals outside and let the breezes cool you down as well. In all things, diet included, moderation is key. Follow these guidelines but without rigidity and enjoy your meals! To feel your best get plenty of rest to balance your increased summertime activity so that when fall arrives you will be healthy and strong and ready for the next seasons ahead.

Cooling Foods:
Citrus
Watermelon
Tofu
Cucumber
Sprouts (Mung, Soy, Alfalfa)
Teas: Chrysanthemum, Chamomile, Mint

Heat Clearing Foods and Spices:

Red and Green Hot Peppers
Cayenne
Fresh Ginger
Horseradish
Black and White Pepper