Happy Summer everybody! After a short “blog vacation” (blogs need vacations too, right?) we have returned in the heat of summer with some words of wisdom that you’ll hopefully find enlightening about getting through the heat of summer in a way that’s healthy for your body and your Qi.
As we’ve mentioned in previous blogs, TCM has a healing methodology that is rooted in 5 elements: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. Each of those elements has pertaining organs, body tissues, emotions, climates, and seasons. The element of Fire is associated with the season of summer and the condition of heat or summerheat. It’s pertaining organs are the heart, pericardium, small intestine, and triple burner/ san jiao. Fire is also related to the tongue and blood vessels. As with all TCM philosophy, this can be observed in both the macrocosm of nature, and the microcosm of the body and the mind.
In nature we see the sun at its peak, with the days becoming hotter and daylight lasting longer. This is also the time of year that certain areas become more prone to fires due to the increased heat; which is especially true in areas where it’s as dry as it is hot.
Within the body we also see fire starting to take over, which is why the climate/condition of “summer heat” is most prevalent. The heat of summer can sneak up on you and zap your energy while also causing sunburns, dehydration, and even heat exhaustion. Typical symptoms of summer heat include body heat (a fever, or just feeling hot), constipation, burning pains, and heart palpitations. Invasion of summer-heat to the head region causes dizziness and vertigo. Excessive sweating exhausts qi and body fluid and manifests as thirst, dryness of the lips and tongue, constipation, and yellowish/concentrated urine, etc. So, in light of the heat we’re experiencing now, I am going to give you some remedies for keeping your cool during these hot months. Children, elderly, and immuno-compromised individuals are most at risk for developing varying degrees of summer heat, so it’s especially important for them to listen to these tips!
- WATER: Carry water with you at all times and take regular sips throughout the day. Dehydration will set in before you realize you are thirsty, and it’s a slippery slope from there. Sipping regularly rather than gulping occasionally will maintain a moderate level of nourishment.
- ELECTROLYTES: In addition to hydration, maintaining electrolyte balance is equally important. When you become dehydrated and deficiency in electrolytes, the kidney’s can become compromised. I personally prefer SmartWater or electrolyte infused water rather that powerade or Gatorade. They taste good, but the excess sugar and other chemicals make it less nourishing.
- *Sun Tip: another option is to use 1tsp of Raw, Unfiltered Apple Cider Vinegar for every 8oz glass of water. This can also help replace electrolytes
- PACING: Pace yourself when you are being active under the sun whether it’s for work or play. Listen to your body and give it rest and water regularly. If you suddenly start to feel faint or dizzy, get out of the sun and sip on cool water.
- CLOTHING: Lighter colored clothing absorbs less heat and actually reflect the sun, which can help keep you cool.
- SUNSCREEN: Wear your sunscreen! SPF 15 for daily wear and 30 if you’re going to be outside. If you do get sunburned, be sure to drink extra water and coat your skin with aloe or another moistening cream.
- *Sun Tip: for an alternative to aloe, you can spread coconut oil infused with essential oils like tea tree, eucalyptus, and peppermint to cool the skin. A good ratio is 1:10.
- KEEP COOL: Cool the body: make regular trips to the pool and immerse your body in the water completely. If you don’t have access to a pool, try taking a cool shower or bath for 15-20minutes.
*If actual heat exhaustion or heat stroke is suspected, seek medical attention immediately*
As always, maintaining a regular health routine is paramount whether it’s acupuncture, massage, yoga, or Qi Gong. There are also some great herbal supplements you can take in the event that you find yourself suffering from any level of heat exhaustion. Be sure to talk to your chosen practitioner at Stream Point if you’re having a hard time beating the heat, and we’ll get you back on track!
Nutritional tips will be in next week’s blog!
Keep Calm and Stay Cool My Friends!
~Andrea Johnston, L.Ac.
