Summer Damp-Heat: What It Is, How It Feels, and How to Beat It (TCM-Style!)

Living in Charleston, SC, we know all too well what it’s like to step outside in the summer and instantly feel like you’re wrapped in a warm, wet towel. The humidity here is next level, and while the sunshine is beautiful, it can really take a toll on how we feel, especially if your body is prone to something we call damp-heat in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

If you’ve been feeling heavy, sluggish, puffy, irritable, or just plain “off” in this weather, you’re not alone. In the clinic, we see this pattern all the time during the summer months, and the good news is: there’s a lot we can do to help.

Let’s break down what damp-heat actually is, how it shows up in the body, and how we treat it in our clinic, with acupuncture, herbs, essential oils, and simple self-care tools you can use at home to stay balanced, cool, and clear all summer long.

What is Damp-Heat, Exactly?

In Chinese Medicine, “dampness” is like that sticky, heavy energy that bogs everything down. Think: swelling, brain fog, bloating, sluggish digestion, and feeling like you’re moving through molasses. “Heat” brings inflammation, irritation, restlessness, skin issues, and even infections. Together, t’s a combo that tends to flare up in hot, humid weather and can affect different systems of the body.

Damp heat shows up in the tongue and pulse diagnosis as swollen and puffy with a coat in the former, and “slippery” with some tightness or rapidness in the latter.

How Damp-Heat Feels in the Body

Damp-heat looks different for everyone, but here are some common signs:

• Feeling heavy or bloated, especially in the limbs

• Digestive upset (think loose stools, sticky bowel movements, or acid reflux)

• Irritability, brain fog, and fatigue

• Puffy face or swollen ankles

• Skin flare-ups like acne, eczema, or rashes

• Bad breath or a bitter taste in the mouth

• Vaginal or urinary irritation (think yeast infections, UTIs)

Damp-heat can also contribute to the stubborn, dreaded “summer-cold” with symptoms like fatigue, yellow phlegm, GI upset, sore throat or a chest cough that can stick around for a while.

We can help! (*deep sigh of relief*)

How We Treat Damp-Heat in the Clinic

At our clinic, we tailor treatments to clear heat, drain dampness, and restore balance to your system. Here’s how we help you feel better from the inside out:

Acupuncture, of course! We use acupuncture points to:

• Support digestion and metabolism (goodbye bloat!)

• Strengthen the Spleen and Stomach qi

• Cool internal heat and inflammation

• Clear out damp accumulation

• Calm the mind and regulate mood

Some favorite points might include Spleen 9 and Stomach 36, Large Intestine 11, and Liver 3- all depending on your exact presentation.

Herbal support: We love to use Chinese herbal medicine to support treatment! Below are a few fantastic herbal allies to cool the body, support digestion, and release excess damp.

• Yi Yi Ren (Job’s Tears): Strengthens the spleen, drains damp, reduces. Can be used in teas and soups.

• Fu Ling (Poira): Tonifies the Spleen, drains damp, calms the mind. A favorite in many classical formulas to support the Spirit.

• Huo Xiang (Patchouli): An aromatic herb that transforms damp, harmonizes the middle (stomach), relieves nausea.

• Jin Yin Hua (Honeysuckle flower): Clears heat and toxins- great for skin, sore throat or detox teas.

• Xi Gua Pi (Watermelon rind): Clears summer-heat, generates fluids, promotes urination. Use in tea and blend into a smoothie!

• Lu Dou (Mung bean): Detoxifies, quenches thirst, perfect in summer drinks

Always check with a licensed herbalist before taking any formula. Herbs are powerful medicine and work best when customized to you.

Essential Oils to the Rescue! Essential oils can help support your body in clearing damp-heat when used thoughtfully:

• Peppermint: Cooling and refreshing, great for the summer heat and clearing heat from the head.

• Tea Tree: Antifungal, antibacterial, and clears skin damp-heat. Supports Lung qi and the respiratory system and great for allergies.

• Grapefruit: A gentle detoxifier that’s especially helpful for dampness and lymph stagnation.

• Patchouli: Transforms dampness, harmonizes the middle burner, and releases summer heat to treat digestive upset, nausea, and heaviness in the body

Try diffusing them or using a few drops in a carrier oil for a lymphatic massage along your arms, legs, or around your abdomen.

Acupressure You Can Do at Home

Add these to your summer self-care toolkit:

• Spleen 9 (Yinlingquan): Inside of the lower leg, just below the knee. Press here to help drain dampness like fluid retention, heaviness in the limbs, sluggish digestion. This point can feel bruise-like, so press gently.

• Stomach 36 (Zusanli): Below the kneecap, about a hand’s width down. Supports digestion and overall energy and immunity. Excellent for kids- use year round!

• Large Intestine 11 (Quchi): At the end of the elbow crease, on the outer part of the arm. Great for clearing heat, especially from the skin, and summer colds with fever and sore throat.

• Liver 3 (Taichong): On the top of the foot between the first and second toes. Helps move stagnation and cool irritability. A favorite for headaches, pain and PMS.

Hold each point for about 30–60 seconds while breathing deeply.

Summer Tips for Keeping Damp-Heat in Check

• Stay hydrated, but skip icy drinks (they slow digestion!)

• Eat light, cooling foods like cucumber, watermelon, mung beans, and bitter greens

• Avoid greasy, fried, or super-sugary foods (they create more dampness)

• Sip chrysanthemum + goji berry tea to cool the body and supports liver health

• Try dry brushing a few times a week before a shower to support the lymphatic system and help move stagnation

• Get enough sleep and find moments to slow down (stress heats the body up!)

Damp-heat doesn’t have to ruin your summer. With a little extra awareness and some solid TCM tools, you can stay cool, clear, and energized all season long. If you’re feeling off, don’t just chalk it up to “summer sluggishness.” Book a session and let’s get your system back in balance!

Want personalized support? We’re here for you. With acupuncture, herbs, lifestyle tweaks, we’ve got all the tools to help you feel light, bright, and grounded again.

👉 Book your summer reset with us at Balance Acupuncture or reach out at info@balancecharleston.com.

Acupuncture Point Stomach 36: A Powerhouse for Health

If you’ve ever had acupuncture, chances are high that you received acupuncture point Stomach 36 (St-36). This point is renowned in TCM for its powerful effects on the body's overall vitality and well-being. While all acupuncture points on the body promote healing, ST36 stands out for its wide range of health benefits.

The name says it all

The Chinese name for Stomach 36 in acupuncture is "足三里" (Zú Sān Lǐ).

足 (Zú) means "foot" or "leg."

三 (Sān) means "three."

里 (Lǐ) is a traditional Chinese unit of distance

(Zú Sān Lǐ) can be translated to "Leg Three Miles." This name refers to the location of the point, which is found on the leg, and it implies a distance along the leg, traditionally measured as three "li" from a particular anatomical landmark.

More importantly, according to legend, you can press on this point and you’ll be able to walk or run three more miles! This point has an affinity for endurance and longevity.

Stomach 36 is a Summertime Go-To

Using both needles and/or moxibustion (a warming technique) on ST36in the summertime is particularly valued in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for several reasons:

• Boosting Immunity: ST36 is powerful to strengthen the immune system and our “defensive” wei qi. This is beneficial in summer when the body may be more vulnerable to external pathogens due to changes in weather and increased outdoor activities.

• Enhancing Digestion: ST36 is a major point for improving digestive function. Summer diets often include more cold and raw foods, which can weaken digestion. Moxa on ST36 helps maintain a healthy digestive system.
  

• Balancing Qi: Summer is associated with the Fire element and Yang energy in TCM. ST36 helps balance the body's Qi, nourishing our resourcing and ensuring the excess heat doesn't deplete the body's energy reserves.

• Preventing Illness: Regular acupuncture or moxibustion on ST36 can prevent summer-related ailments such as heat stroke, dehydration, and gastrointestinal disturbances by maintaining overall health and energy balance.

• Strengthening the Spleen and Stomach: ST36 is a key point for supporting the Spleen and Stomach, which are crucial for overall energy and nutrient absorption, and production of Qi and Blood. This makes it an excellent point for women’s health! And, strengthening these organs can help the body adapt better to the environmental changes in summer.

DIY Treatment with Acupressure on Point St36

While professional acupuncture treatment is highly effective, you can also stimulate ST36 at home using acupressure. This may be helpful if you want to strenghten your immune system, treat fatigue, treat menstrual discomfort, target digestive issues, or increase vitality to run 3 miles!

Here’s a simple guide to performing a DIY treatment:

Acupressure on ST36

1. Locate the Point: Sit comfortably and find ST36 on your leg. Measure four finger widths below your kneecap and one finger width to the outside of your shinbone.

2. Apply Pressure: Use your thumb or pointer finger to press firmly on the point. You should feel a slight soreness or tingling sensation.

3. Massage: Apply circular pressure for 1-2 minutes. Be sure to maintain consistent pressure and breathe deeply. Inhale lavender or neroli essential oil to promote relaxation.

4. Repeat: Perform this acupressure technique on both legs, ideally twice a day for best results.

Stomach 36 (ST36) is a powerful acupuncture point that can offer a multitude of health benefits, from boosting immunity to improving digestion and increasing energy. By learning how to stimulate this point through acupressure, you can tap into the healing potential of TCM right at home. Always remember to approach DIY treatments with care and, when in doubt, seek guidance from a professional.

Summer Acupuncture for Winter Wellness

Have you been regular about your acupuncture treatments? It can be easy to fall out of routine in the summer! Now is a great time to get back in to the swing of things, and for a good reason: according to TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) theory, summer is the best season to nourish the body and treat winter diseases. 

Chinese Medicine proposes that we can harness that bright, hot, yang energy of summer to increase our immunity and vitality. Caring for your body while you are feeling healthy is the ideal time to prevent illness and boost your baseline level of health!

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and balance. The concept of using acupuncture in the summertime to prevent disease in the winter is rooted in the idea of maintaining balance and harmony within the body's energy systems, or "qi."

Here’s how your summer treatments impact your winter health:

Boosts immunity. Acupuncture can enhance the immune system, making the body more resilient to infections and illnesses that are more common in the winter months.

Balances Yin and Yang. In TCM, the summer is associated with the yang energy, which is active and expansive. Winter is associated with yin energy, which is more inward and conserving. Acupuncture in the summer can help balance these energies, preparing the body to better cope with the colder, more yin-dominated season.

Regulates the internal systems. Acupuncture can help regulate the body's internal systems, such as the respiratory and circulatory systems, which can be more prone to issues in the winter due to cold weather and increased susceptibility to respiratory infections.

Addresses chronic conditions. For individuals with chronic conditions that worsen in the winter, summer acupuncture can help manage symptoms and reduce the likelihood of flare-ups when the colder weather arrives.

Offers preventative care. Regular acupuncture sessions during the summer can address any imbalances or weaknesses in the body, effectively preventing the onset of disease or exacerbation of existing conditions in the winter.

Let’s prioritize Chinese medicine and acupuncture regularly throughout the year- not just when we're falling apart. Your health relies on these consistent practices you do to maintain and optimize your wellbeing. Bring yourself nourishment, balance, and rejuvenation now for vibrant health in the winter!

Make an appointment with your acupuncturist today! (843) 790-4295

TCM, Summer + the Fire Element

Happy Summer!

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), each season is associated with specific elements, organs, emotions, and health practices to maintain harmony and balance. Summer, governed by the Fire element, is a time of abundance, activity, and outward energy.

Here’s how TCM approaches health during the toasty summer season:

Characteristics of Summer in TCM

Element: Fire

The Fire element represents heat, growth, and movement. It’s the most yang of all elements, indicating maximum activity and expansion.

Organ Systems: Heart and Small Intestine

The Heart is considered the "Emperor" of the organs, governing blood circulation and housing the Shen (spirit or mind).

The Small Intestine helps separate clear from turbid, playing a crucial role in digestion and assimilation.

Emotion: Joy

Joy is the emotion associated with the Fire element and summer. Balanced joy supports emotional health, while excess or deficiency can lead to disturbances such as mania or depression.

Color: Red

Red symbolizes the vibrant energy of summer and the Fire element.

Climate: Heat

Summer is characterized by warmth and heat, which can invigorate but also deplete bodily fluids and energy if excessive.

Health Practices for Summer in TCM

Food Therapy:

Emphasize light, cooling foods to counterbalance the heat. These include watermelon, cucumber, tomatoes, and leafy greens.

Incorporate bitter foods like dandelion greens and bitter melon to promote heart health and digestive functions.

Avoid overly spicy, greasy, and heavy foods, as they can add internal heat and burden the digestive system.

Hydrate!!

Increase fluid intake to replenish the body's moisture lost through perspiration. Herbal teas, such as chrysanthemum tea, can have cooling properties. Include electrolytes like coconut water, as well.

Avoid excessive consumption of cold drinks and ice, which can impair digestion by introducing cold and damp to the digestive system- this puts out our digestive fire!

Activity and Lifestyle:

Engage in moderate outdoor activities to align with the yang energy of the season, but avoid excessive exertion during peak heat times.

Rise early and go to bed later, mirroring the longer daylight hours. Take midday breaks to rest and prevent heat exhaustion.

Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine:

Focus on points and herbs that support the Heart and Small Intestine, regulate heat, and enhance blood circulation.

Common points used include Heart 7 (Shenmen) for calming the spirit and Small Intestine 3 (Houxi) for clearing heat.

Herbs like mint (Bo He), honeysuckle (Jin Yin Hua), and chrysanthemum (Ju Hua) are often used to clear heat and toxins.

Emotional and Mental Health:

Foster activities that bring joy and social interaction, as summer is a time for outward expression and connectivity.

Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques to balance the high energy and prevent overstimulation.

Seasonal Disorders and TCM Approaches

Heatstroke: Symptoms include dizziness, headache, and nausea. TCM recommends rest, hydration, and cooling herbs.

Skin Issues: Heat and dampness can lead to rashes and other skin problems. TCM uses cooling herbs and acupuncture to clear heat and resolve dampness.

Digestive Problems: Overindulgence in cold and raw foods can impair digestion. Herbs like ginger and acupuncture points on the stomach meridian can help restore balance.

By following these principles and adjusting lifestyle and dietary habits, TCM aims to harmonize the body with the season, promoting health and well-being during the vibrant summer months. And of course, contact your acupuncturist if you could use a seasonal tune-up! (843) 790-4295

TCM Food Therapy for Summer Wellness

Summer is just around the corner! Beach days, barbecues, and pool hangs are calling our name. The energy of the season is all about joy, connection, expansiveness, and fun. To enjoy the season to its fullest, TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) teaches us how to live in harmony with the season and the feisty element of Fire. Whether you thrive in the heat or want to melt away, this TCM Summer Food Therapy guide is for you!

“Without the knowledge of proper diet, it is hardly possible to enjoy good health.”

— Sun Si Miao, Tang Dyansty Dietitian

Food therapy plays a major role in how we can maintain good health year round. In Chinese Medicine, every food has its own property and temperature and powerful medicinal ability. The key to thriving in the Summer is to include a diet that clears heat, resolves dampness, and strengthens the digestive system and Spleen Qi.

Summer is the most Yang time of year. That means both nature and our bodies are at its pinnacle of warmth and activity. Here in the Lowcountry, Summer brings a good dose of heat and humidity on the daily. In Chinese Medicine, we refer to this as Summer-Heat. It’s not just hot. There’s a damp quality, too, that can leave us feeling lethargic and sluggish on the brightest, sunniest days.

Summer corresponds to the Fire element and the Heart and Small Intestine meridian system. Late Summer brings in the Earth element, and the Spleen and Stomach meridian systems. If our body is in balance, we feel joyful and energized by the summer’s sun and maintain good health.

Signs that our body is out of balance with the Summer season include increased anxiety and agitation (an unsettled heart/spirit), rashes and skin irritation, GI issues, fatigue and lethargy, swelling/edema, and insomnia and sleep disturbance. Eating the right foods can help our body find its homeostasis and being us back into balance.

Following TCM Dietary Guidelines does wonders for our seasonal health and physical/emotional well-being. Enjoy our free guide for Summer-time food therapy!

Late Summer, the Earth Element + Chinese Medicine

A Chinese Medical Perspective on Health + Wellness in the Late Summer

"In its central position the Earth is the pivot for all of the other Elements which encircle and spin around it. It is a place of stability within the body, mind, and spirit. From this stable anchor, change and growth can take place. Our food can be transformed and processed by the Stomach and Spleen and turned into qi that nourishes the mind, body, and spirit” - Angela Hicks, Five Element Constitutional Acupuncture

Acupuncture helps us live harmoniously with the seasons.

In Chinese Medicine theory, there are five natural elements that exist within us, as they do in nature. Each season belongs to a particular element and has unique correspondences. When we study nature’s patterns and cycles, we can learn how to support our own health and stay well year-round.

Late summer’s ASSOCIATIONS IN CHINESE MEDICINE

ELEMENT: earth

YIN ORGAN: spleen

YANG ORGAN: stomach

EMOTION: worry

SPIRIT: yi (intellect)

CLIMATE: humidity

COLOR: yellow

TASTE: sweet  

SENSE ORGANS: mouth

TISSUES: muscles  

VIRTUES: empathy, nurturinG

The long, endless days of summer are winding down and we find ourselves transitioning into the season of the Earth element- the season of harvest. It’s time to take stock in the celebration and abundance of summer and let that nourish our body and mind.

Earth is a gentle rolling hill, a long golden beach, or a staggering mountain range. Within us, Earth is family and friends. It is the fabric of life that we create and nurture with integrity. The season The Earth element belongs to a “fifth season” that spans from the hazy days following the peak of summer to the start of fall. During this time of year, we focus on the digestive system, nourishment, and stability. 


The Spleen and Stomach

The Spleen and Stomach meridian systems belong to the Earth element, and they play a very important role in our overall health and wellbeing. So much so that in 1180 CE, famous Chinese physician Li Dong Yuan founded the Earth School because he believed that the etiology of most diseases was a result of injury to the digestive system. According to this school of thought, the Spleen and Stomach are at the center of one’s health. The Earth School teachings remain relevant in today’s practice, especially in light of the recent research on the relationship between gut health and immunity. 

The Spleen is in charge of making our body's qi and blood, which are the vital substances needed to stay healthy. Additionally, the spleen “holds” the blood in the vessels, and ascends energy to prevent prolapse of various organs like the uterus and bladder. Most importantly, the Spleen transforms the food we eat into energy and transports that nutritive energy (“ying qi”) to other parts of our body. When the spleen is weak or out of balance, various health issues from digestive to gynecological to emotional arise.

In Chinese medicine theory, every organ “houses” a spirit, which corresponds to a certain aspect of our psyche. Our thoughts and mental capacity relate to the spirit of the Spleen, called the Yi (which translates to Intellect). The Yi influences our capacity for studying, concentration, memorizing, etc. With school back in session, supporting the spleen Qi is essential!

The emotion associated with the spleen is worry. With its connection to the mind and thinking, the Yi is be prone to worry, anxiety, and overthinking. When caught in this loop, spleen Qi deficiency symptoms arise, like digestive weakness, IBS, and fatigue. Meditation and calming the mind are very important for spleen health.

The Earth element relates to issues of dampness (humidity, heaviness, phlegm) - the climate of late summer. Dampness shows up in the body in many ways: physical fatigue, mental fatigue, worry, digestive problems, and muscle weakness to name a few. Because the spleen and stomach meridian systems are particularly impacted by dampness, food therapy becomes so important to keep everything on track.

Seasonal Wellness

In Chinese Medicine, we take seasonal changes as opportunities to better our health and prevent disease. Just like the seasons cycle, our health is not a fixed state. When there are changes in nature, it’s important that we adjust to the natural rhythms and flow of the earth. Addressing our health in this way will help us cultivate balance, harmony, and holistic health throughout the year.

Now is the time to reinforce the vitality of the earth element and spleen Qi- acupuncture, food therapy, and mindfulness are particularly supportive.

“Earth generates Metal”. Fall is the season of the metal element and the lung meridian system- and of course, when colds, flus, and seasonal allergies circulate. Cultivating a balanced earth element and strong Spleen qi in the late summer contributes to a stronger immune system and healthy lungs in the fall. Preventative medicine is the best medicine!

“Knowing how to treat the center is knowing how to bring all networks into balance.” - Ming Dynasty (AD 1368-1644)

Here are some tips to boost the vitality of your earth element and the wellbeing of your mind, body, and spirit:

Warm it up. The earth element thrives on a nourishing diet, and nutritional therapy related to the Spleen is key for maintaining good and balanced health. Cold raw food creates dampness in the spleen, which interferes with its role of the transportation and transformation of nutrients and energy, and its ability to produce qi and blood. This leads to a variety of health imbalances. Maintaining warmth in the Earth center of the body is very important.

As summer draws to a close, it’s time to phase out your consumption of cold raw foods, including smoothies, ice water, and salads. Dairy, refined sugars, and fatty and greasy foods also contribute to dampness. Do include warm, cooked meals. Aromatic spices like ginger, fennel, coriander, caraway, and cardamom help to warm things up, resolves dampness, and strengthen the spleen Qi.

Say yes to sweet. Sweet flavors, in small amounts, favor the Spleen and Stomach (sadly, we are not talking about ice cream).  Sweet foods that strengthen the Earth element include whole grains, like millet, rice, and root vegetables, such as yams, sweet potatoes and carrots. Enjoy the sweet fruits and veggies that are in season and available in the late summer harvest.

Don’t skip breakfast. According to the Chinese Medicine clock, the Stomach has optimal digestive capacity between 7-9am. Your meal should be substantial and fortifying. A good breakfast strengthens the stomach and spleen qi and yang for the day. Optimal breakfast foods are energetically warming foods, prepared with warm cooking methods that stimulate the body and do not spread dampness. A favorite in Chinese Medicine food therapy is breakfast congee, a highly nourishing and healing way to start the day.

(get our congee recipe here!)

The color of the Earth is yellow. The Su Wen Chapter 10 states that, “yellow corresponds to the Spleen”. Eating foods that are yellow and orange are especially supportive for Spleen health. Examples include squash, sweet potato, yams, corn, papaya, and carrots.

Find your center. The Earth element is about stability, nurturance, caregiving, and bounty. Seek activities that keep you centered and grounded; focus on what nourishes and fulfills you and those you care about. With fall just around the corner, the season of "letting go", we will soon think about the things we have too much of and begin the process of releasing, clearing, and simplifying. 

Be mindful about what you mentally ingest. As our focus turns to the health of our Spleen and Stomach organ systems and its relationship to the "Yi"- our mind and intellect- we need to be mindful about what we MENTALLY ingest, as well. This is a perfect time of year to think about our relationship with social media and the news and to create boundaries around screen time. 

And finally- sing like no one’s listening! Every element has an associated sound, through which it expresses itself. The sound of the Earth element is "singing". Whether your stage is the shower, the car, or a stage, get those vocal chords warmed up and sing your heart out!

CONSIDER ACUPUNCTURE, HERBS, AND OILS TO HELP

The transition from summer to fall can be tough, and some people dread this time of year. Resistance to the changing seasons can cause stagnation in the body and weaken the immune system. Acupuncture helps our body and mind move effortlessly with seasonal changes.

For a daily earth-strengthening fix, try patchouli essential oil. Entering the Lung, Spleen, and Stomach channels, this oil resolves dampness and phlegm and harmonizes the digestive system. On an emotional level, patchouli can help the body transform and release pent-up emotions and calm a worried or restless mind. We also like neroli for tonifying spleen qi, soothing a nervous stomach and easing anxiety, and grapefruit for uplifting the spirit and resolving stagnation caused by food and dampness.

There are many helpful herbal formulas for fortifying the Spleen qi and balancing the earth element, and the best option for you should be determined by your acupuncturist. Some formulas are better for draining dampness, and others for building Qi and blood, treating digestive weakness, or calming worry and anxiety.

Try acupressure on acupuncture point Spleen 9 (Sp-9 Yin Ling Quan), located on the inside part of the lower leg, in the depression of the lower border of the medial condyle of the tibia below the knee. The easiest way to find the point is to run your thumb up the edge of the bone on the inside of your lower leg until it falls into a hole- if the point is active, it will feel tender. This is THE acupuncture point for resolving dampness anywhere in the body. Gently press on this point for 20-30 seconds to help relieve abdominal discomfort, bloating, gas pains, and lethargy after eating. This point also helps treat edema, swelling, thirst and urinary difficulty. And if you find yourself trapped in a cycle of worrisome or anxious thoughts and circular thinking, press on Spleen 9 to help break the pattern and bring ease to a worried mind. 

Chinese Medicine proposes that we will feel our best if we live according to the seasons. In late Summer, it is the Earth element that is the most active and also the most vulnerable. With appropriate diet and lifestyle adjustments, we can cultivate a healthy Earth element, a strong gut and optimal immunity. 

TCM Tips for a Healthy Summer

Things are warming up and we've got your TCM tips to help you enjoy a happy and healthy summer! 

The transition from Spring to Summer is represented by the wood element moving into the FIRE element. The new growth and budding energy of spring is now exploding into summer vibrance and abundance. Whether you thrive in the heat or want to melt away, self-care is essential this time of year:

SYNC UP YOUR SLEEP SCHEDULE. Chinese Medicine suggests aligning your sleep schedule with seasonal changes will help you have the most energy throughout your day. In the summer, take advantage of the long days by rising early, napping in the afternoon, and staying up later. This practice will help keep balance within your circadian rhythm AND get the benefits of being in the sun before the rays get too hot and strong. 

EAT WITH THE SEASON. In these hotter months, our diet should be light, cooling, nutrient-dense, brightly colored, and hydrating.  Good options include: apricot, bananas, apples, lettuce, cantaloupe, watermelon, strawberries, tomatoes, citrus, peaches, cucumber, zucchini, asparagus, bok choy, water chestnut, corn, snow peas, and mint. These foods are plentiful this time of year, so be sure to incorporate them into your diet on a regular basis to offset the summer heat.

HYDRATE! Balancing fire with water is essential to staying healthy in the summer. This means to be sure to drink plenty of water and keep the mineral and electrolyte balance in check. Chronic dehydration can have more to do with electrolyte and mineral depletion rather than how much water you're actually drinking. Try coconut water on hot days or adding a pinch of sea salt or trace mineral drops to your glass of water. TCM also recommends watermelon juice for cooling the body and cleansing the system.

NOURISH THE SPIRIT AND CULTIVATE JOY. This is the essence- or the qi- of the season! Summer also corresponds with the Heart and Small Intestine organ systems, so symptoms like poor memory, anxiety, agitation, insomnia, UTIs, heartburn, or depression will indicate imbalance of these organ systems this time of year. If you're struggling with any of these, it's time to schedule an acupuncture treatment!

SCHEDULE AN ACUPUNCTURE APPOINTMENT. Acupuncture quickly and effectively brings balance in our body and helps our internal rhythms adjust to change. No surprise here, that acupuncture is our #1 go-to for self-care, especially with regards to seasonal transition. 

Contact us to learn more about seasonal wellness and Chinese Medicine or to book your seasonal tune-up! (843) 790-4295

Embrace the Earth Element

A Chinese Medical Perspective on Health + Wellness in the Late Summer

"In its central position the Earth is the pivot for all of the other Elements which encircle and spin around it. It is a place of stability within the body, mind, and spirit. From this stable anchor, change and growth can take place. Our food can be transformed and processed by the Stomach and Spleen and turned into qi that nourishes the mind, body, and spirit” - Angela Hicks, Five Element Constitutional Acupuncture

Acupuncture helps us live harmoniously with the seasons.

In Chinese Medicine theory, there are five natural elements that exist within us, as they do in nature. Each season belongs to a particular element and has unique correspondences. When we study nature’s patterns and cycles, we can learn how to support our own health and stay well year-round.

Late summer’s ASSOCIATIONS IN CHINESE MEDICINE

ELEMENT: earth

YIN ORGAN: spleen

YANG ORGAN: stomach

EMOTION: worry

SPIRIT: yi (intellect)

CLIMATE: humidity

COLOR: yellow

TASTE: sweet  

SENSE ORGANS: mouth

TISSUES: muscles  

VIRTUES: empathy, nurturinG

The long, endless days of summer are winding down and we find ourselves transitioning into the season of the Earth element- the season of harvest. It’s time to take stock in the celebration and abundance of summer and let that nourish our body and mind.

Earth is a gentle rolling hill, a long golden beach, or a staggering mountain range. Within us, Earth is family and friends. It is the fabric of life that we create and nurture with integrity. The season The Earth element belongs to a “fifth season” that spans from the hazy days following the peak of summer to the start of fall. During this time of year, we focus on the digestive system, nourishment, and stability. 


The Spleen and Stomach

The Spleen and Stomach meridian systems belong to the Earth element, and they play a very important role in our overall health and wellbeing. So much so that in 1180 CE, famous Chinese physician Li Dong Yuan founded the Earth School because he believed that the etiology of most diseases was a result of injury to the digestive system. According to this school of thought, the Spleen and Stomach are at the center of one’s health. The Earth School teachings remain relevant in today’s practice, especially in light of the recent research on the relationship between gut health and immunity. 

The Spleen is in charge of making our body's qi and blood, which are the vital substances needed to stay healthy. Additionally, the spleen “holds” the blood in the vessels, and ascends energy to prevent prolapse of various organs like the uterus and bladder. Most importantly, the Spleen transforms the food we eat into energy and transports that nutritive energy (“ying qi”) to other parts of our body. When the spleen is weak or out of balance, various health issues from digestive to gynecological to emotional arise.

In Chinese medicine theory, every organ “houses” a spirit, which corresponds to a certain aspect of our psyche. Our thoughts and mental capacity relate to the spirit of the Spleen, called the Yi (which translates to Intellect). The Yi influences our capacity for studying, concentration, memorizing, etc. With school back in session, supporting the spleen Qi is essential!

The emotion associated with the spleen is worry. With its connection to the mind and thinking, the Yi is be prone to worry, anxiety, and overthinking. When caught in this loop, spleen Qi deficiency symptoms arise, like digestive weakness, IBS, and fatigue. Meditation and calming the mind are very important for spleen health.

The Earth element relates to issues of dampness (humidity, heaviness, phlegm) - the climate of late summer. Dampness shows up in the body in many ways: physical fatigue, mental fatigue, worry, digestive problems, and muscle weakness to name a few. Because the spleen and stomach meridian systems are particularly impacted by dampness, food therapy becomes so important to keep everything on track.

Seasonal Wellness

In Chinese Medicine, we take seasonal changes as opportunities to better our health and prevent disease. Just like the seasons cycle, our health is not a fixed state. When there are changes in nature, it’s important that we adjust to the natural rhythms and flow of the earth. Addressing our health in this way will help us cultivate balance, harmony, and holistic health throughout the year.

Now is the time to reinforce the vitality of the earth element and spleen Qi- acupuncture, food therapy, and mindfulness are particularly supportive.

“Earth generates Metal”. Fall is the season of the metal element and the lung meridian system- and of course, when colds, flus, and seasonal allergies circulate. Cultivating a balanced earth element and strong Spleen qi in the late summer contributes to a stronger immune system and healthy lungs in the fall. Preventative medicine is the best medicine!

“Knowing how to treat the center is knowing how to bring all networks into balance.” - Ming Dynasty (AD 1368-1644)

Here are some tips to boost the vitality of your earth element and the wellbeing of your mind, body, and spirit:

Warm it up. The earth element thrives on a nourishing diet, and nutritional therapy related to the Spleen is key for maintaining good and balanced health. Cold raw food creates dampness in the spleen, which interferes with its role of the transportation and transformation of nutrients and energy, and its ability to produce qi and blood. This leads to a variety of health imbalances. Maintaining warmth in the Earth center of the body is very important.

As summer draws to a close, it’s time to phase out your consumption of cold raw foods, including smoothies, ice water, and salads. Dairy, refined sugars, and fatty and greasy foods also contribute to dampness. Do include warm, cooked meals. Aromatic spices like ginger, fennel, coriander, caraway, and cardamom help to warm things up, resolves dampness, and strengthen the spleen Qi.

Say yes to sweet. Sweet flavors, in small amounts, favor the Spleen and Stomach (sadly, we are not talking about ice cream).  Sweet foods that strengthen the Earth element include whole grains, like millet, rice, and root vegetables, such as yams, sweet potatoes and carrots. Enjoy the sweet fruits and veggies that are in season and available in the late summer harvest.

Don’t skip breakfast. According to the Chinese Medicine clock, the Stomach has optimal digestive capacity between 7-9am. Your meal should be substantial and fortifying. A good breakfast strengthens the stomach and spleen qi and yang for the day. Optimal breakfast foods are energetically warming foods, prepared with warm cooking methods that stimulate the body and do not spread dampness. A favorite in Chinese Medicine food therapy is breakfast congee, a highly nourishing and healing way to start the day.

(get our congee recipe here!)

The color of the Earth is yellow. The Su Wen Chapter 10 states that, “yellow corresponds to the Spleen”. Eating foods that are yellow and orange are especially supportive for Spleen health. Examples include squash, sweet potato, yams, corn, papaya, and carrots.

Find your center. The Earth element is about stability, nurturance, caregiving, and bounty. Seek activities that keep you centered and grounded; focus on what nourishes and fulfills you and those you care about. With fall just around the corner, the season of "letting go", we will soon think about the things we have too much of and begin the process of releasing, clearing, and simplifying. 

Be mindful about what you mentally ingest. As our focus turns to the health of our Spleen and Stomach organ systems and its relationship to the "Yi"- our mind and intellect- we need to be mindful about what we MENTALLY ingest, as well. This is a perfect time of year to think about our relationship with social media and the news and to create boundaries around screen time. 

And finally- sing like no one’s listening! Every element has an associated sound, through which it expresses itself. The sound of the Earth element is "singing". Whether your stage is the shower, the car, or a stage, get those vocal chords warmed up and sing your heart out!

CONSIDER ACUPUNCTURE, HERBS, AND OILS TO HELP

The transition from summer to fall can be tough, and some people dread this time of year. Resistance to the changing seasons can cause stagnation in the body and weaken the immune system. Acupuncture helps our body and mind move effortlessly with seasonal changes.

For a daily earth-strengthening fix, try patchouli essential oil. Entering the Lung, Spleen, and Stomach channels, this oil resolves dampness and phlegm and harmonizes the digestive system. On an emotional level, patchouli can help the body transform and release pent-up emotions and calm a worried or restless mind. We also like neroli for tonifying spleen qi, soothing a nervous stomach and easing anxiety, and grapefruit for uplifting the spirit and resolving stagnation caused by food and dampness.

There are many helpful herbal formulas for fortifying the Spleen qi and balancing the earth element, and the best option for you should be determined by your acupuncturist. Some formulas are better for draining dampness, and others for building Qi and blood, treating digestive weakness, or calming worry and anxiety.

Try acupressure on acupuncture point Spleen 9 (Sp-9 Yin Ling Quan), located on the inside part of the lower leg, in the depression of the lower border of the medial condyle of the tibia below the knee. The easiest way to find the point is to run your thumb up the edge of the bone on the inside of your lower leg until it falls into a hole- if the point is active, it will feel tender. This is THE acupuncture point for resolving dampness anywhere in the body. Gently press on this point for 20-30 seconds to help relieve abdominal discomfort, bloating, gas pains, and lethargy after eating. This point also helps treat edema, swelling, thirst and urinary difficulty. And if you find yourself trapped in a cycle of worrisome or anxious thoughts and circular thinking, press on Spleen 9 to help break the pattern and bring ease to a worried mind. 

Chinese Medicine proposes that we will feel our best if we live according to the seasons. In late Summer, it is the Earth element that is the most active and also the most vulnerable. With appropriate diet and lifestyle adjustments, we can cultivate a healthy Earth element, a strong gut and optimal immunity. 

The Spirit of the Small Intestine Acupuncture Channel

"The Small Intestine is responsible for receiving and making things thrive. Transformed substances stem from it."

- Su Wen, Chapter 8

In Five Element theory, each of the five elements has a correlating season and organ system pair. For the Fire element, the season is Summer and the organ systems are the Heart and Small Intestine. All of the body's organs represent "Officials", and each play an important role in keeping us physically, mentally, and spiritually balanced. 

In the Summer, the Fire element organs are the most active and therefore need the most attention and care. Here, the spotlight is on the Small Intestine- one of my favorite channels to use for clearing summer-related heat and dampness, and improving mental clarity, calming the spirit, and supporting digestion and gut health. She is small but she is mighty!

The role of the Small Intestine is to sort the pure from impure. 

This Fire element organ is a bit of an alchemist! It receives material and transforms it, and through the process of separation, sorts what to keep and what to discard. Everything we eat and drink passes through the Small Intestine and is transformed and sorted out through the process of digestion. Nutrients are absorbed into the blood and waste is eliminated. 

The Small Intestine’s ability to separate pure from impure also works on a mental, emotional, and spiritual level. In our fast-paced world, our minds have a lot to sort out! With constant input from 24/7 headlines and social media feeds, we have to be able to sort out what serves us and what does not. We have endless decisions to make and a million ways our choices are being influenced. A healthy Small Intestine system gives us the ability to clearly see our choices and make decisions. It gives us the power to find a way to extract what's good and discard the rest. 

What do we take in and what do we leave out? What should we absorb, what to eliminate? Because the Small Intestine's job is to separate the pure from impure, it also has the important role of discrimination. But as we are constantly faced with so many choices and influences, this can become an overwhelming task for the Small Intestine to take on.

When overwhelmed, the job of the organ Officials become impaired. When the Small Intestine can no longer discriminate, people can become easily confused or indecisive. We can feel ambivalent, and not even be able to see what we are supposed to be choosing from. We can feel mentally foggy, unable to make decisions, or evaluating what to do next.
 

Similarly, the food we take in impacts the spirit of the Small Intestine. When overwhelmed with junk food and empty calories, the Small Intestine struggles to decipher what to keep as nourishment and what to let go of as waste. Our gut heath can become compromised, digestion impaired, and immune system out of whack. 

How can we support the spirit of the Small Intestine?

 The goal is not to go towards extreme purity (of food, exercise, water, spiritual practice, etc), as this also creates imbalances. The goal is to cultivate awareness, listen to our body, and strive for balance in our busy lives. Eating well, self-care, acupuncture, sleep, healthy boundaries, exercise, meditation… any of these practices will help support the spirit and health of the Small Intestine organ system.  

Here are some of our favorite acupuncture points to support the Small Intestine:

Small Intestine 4 (SI-4) “Wrist Bone”: Located on the wrist bone below the pinky finger, the Source Point of the Small Intestine is excellent for strengthening and calming all aspects of the organ. It improves a patient’s well-being and ability to separate pure from impure on all levels. It promotes peristalsis, supports a healthy gut lining, and stimulates the immune system.

Small intestine 5 (SI-5) “Yang Valley”: Located just below SI-4, the Fire point of the Small Intestine channel invigorates the Small Intestine and enables people to acquire greater mental clarity and calmness. It guides appropriate decision making, helping the Small Intestine to separate the pure from impure. This point also aids in digestion and nutrient absorption, and is effective for clearing heat and dampness from the body, 

Small Intestine 11 (SI-11) “Heavenly Ancestor”: Located on the center of the scapula (shoulder blade), this one of the most important spirit points on the Small Intestine channel. This point is used to help clear the internal mental and spiritual chaos of someone who has lost clarity and certainty. This point opens the chest and calms an anxious heart (the Yin organ pair of the Small Intestine). 

References:

Gumenick, Neil. "Spirit of the Points: The Small Intestine". Acupuncture Today, July 2019.

Hicks, Angela. "Five Element Constitutional Acupuncture". Elsevier Limited 2004.

Summer Self-Care from a Chinese Medical Perspective

Hello, 90 degree temps and long sunny days! Whether you thrive in the heat or want to melt away, self-care is essential this time of year.

The transition from Spring to Summer is represented by the wood element moving into the fire element. The new growth and budding energy of spring is now exploding into summer vibrance and abundance! The organ system related to the fire element is the heart, so our summer our self-care routine should support a healthy heart and circulatory system. Acupuncture, essential oils, herbs and nutrition will keep your body in balance during this seasonal transition.

As the Heat Turns Up, Here Are Our Favorite Ways To Stay Healthy:

1. ACUPUNCTURE. Acupuncture quickly and effectively invites change and balance in our body. No surprise here, that acupuncture is our #1 go-to for self-care, especially with regards to seasonal change. Points to balance the "fire element" and boost the health of its corresponding organ pair, the Heart and Small Intestine, become essential during these steamy summer days!

2. HERBAL TEA. The name of the game this time of year is to clear heat, nourish the fluids, and replenish depletion. The Chinese herbal tea blend, Dao Chi San, tackles all three! Herbal iced teas that are RED are also very beneficial. Red is the color of the fire element and red herbs tend to favor heart health! Some of these herbs include hibiscus, rooibos, and hawthorn.

3. ESSENTIAL OILS. As the temperature climbs, cooling oils like peppermint and geranium are excellent summer allies. A drop of peppermint on the back of your neck or chest will quickly clear summer heat and treat summer bugs or heat exhaustion. Geranium is cooling and also nourishes yin, keeping your body and skin hydrated and refreshed.

4. EATING WITH THE SEASON. In the warmer months, our diet should be light, cooling, brightly colored, and hydrating. Now is the time to include more raw food into the diet. Our absolute top favorite for beating the heat is watermelon!

5. STAY ACTIVE. The Wood Element of spring enjoyed some good stretches and lots of walks. Soon, our focus turns to the heart and the fire element. A healthy heart and circulatory system requires regular exercise. Get in some good cardiovascular exercise and try to build a sweat, which helps to cleanse toxins from the body.

6. ENJOY LIFE TO ITS FULLEST. The hot, sunny, long days of summer invite the Fire in us to come out and play. The emotion of the fire element is joy, and its sound is laughter. Hanging out with friends and family, throwing backyard bbq parties, going to the beach or to the ball game supports the social inclination of the Fire element and encourages a happy heart. A sense of humor, having fun, and a good laugh just might be the best medicine!

7. BALANCE FIRE WITH WATER. Not surprisingly, it becomes easy to push our Fire to its limits. Symptoms like fatigue, lethargy, dehydration, insomnia, and irritability are signs that the Fire element needs extra attention. The job of the five elements in Chinese Medicine is to keep each other balanced and in check. It’s important to balance the hot, active, yang energy of the fire element with its polar opposite: the cooling, nourishing, slow, yin energy of the water element. Take time to slow down with a nap, yoga or meditation. Or more literally, get in the water! Connecting with the water element is grounding and helps to keep your fire from flaring and burning out.