Six Tips for Late Summer
In Chinese Medicine, late summer is ruled by the earth element and spans from the third week of August until the Fall Equinox. This season focuses on the digestive system and the muscles, making it the perfect time to enhance your digestive health!
Digestive health plays a vital role in maintaining healthy skin, so if you're dealing with skin issues, focusing on your digestion can make a significant difference.
Here are my go-to tips for supporting your digestive health:
Opt for Warming Foods: Cold foods require more energy to digest. Even in summer, choosing warm, cooked meals over raw salads can aid digestion, especially if you suffer from bloating or indigestion.
Minimize Damp Foods: Humidity isn't just in the SF air; it affects your body too. Minimize intake of sugary, refined, fried, and greasy foods to prevent that sluggish, damp feeling and support your spleen.
Take a Post-Meal Walk: Remember, “The spleen loves 100 steps after every meal.” A short walk after eating can boost digestion and overall well-being.
Nourish Your Muscles: Since the spleen governs both digestion and muscles, engaging in weight-training can support your digestive system. (Wisdom like this is why I love Chinese Medicine!)
Sip on Warm, Aromatic Teas: Herbs like fennel and cardamom help keep digestive energy flowing smoothly. Fresh ginger tea is also fantastic for supporting the spleen and is a great addition to your morning routine between 9-11am, when spleen energy is at its peak.
See your local acupuncturist or herbalist: It's always a great idea to come in for a seasonal tune-up as the seasons change, especially to prepare your body for the fall. I'd love to see you!
I hope this season is full of joy for you. I'll see you at the clinic!
