Acupuncture Inspired Suggestions to Beat the Summer HEAT!

With summer nearly at peak heat now, I’m sure it comes of little surprise to you that acupuncturists say that summer is ruled by the element of Fire.

Fire’s natural tendency is to flare outward and upward. It can warm and comfort us, but it can also get out of control if it’s not contained, scorching everything in its path.

During the summer, the Fire inside of us mirrors the Fire outside, waking up our inner brightness so that we feel more energized, social, and lighter both physically and mentally. However, just like a fire can spread in nature, it can also blaze out of control inside our bodies.

If you think back to the last time you felt anger or anxiety, most likely you felt the heat of your inner fire rising to your face!

When Fire blazes inside you, you end up with a sense of anxiety, physical discomfort, or anger. You might also notices other uncomfortable symptoms like insomnia, fever, irritability, restlessness, high blood pressure, constipation, headaches, shortness of breath, nose bleeds, and heat exhaustion.

So how can you beat the summer and keep your inner Fire in check?!

1. Eat watermelons, which grow in the summer to help us cool down from the inside out. Another perk: watermelons are also great for digestive regularity and healthy skin!

2. Sweat responsibly! When your body temperature rises, sweat beads cool you off and leave your pores wide open. If you enter a chilly air-conditioned space or are outside in the wind you can end up with what we call Wind-Cold invasion (aka you’ll more easily catch a cold). The area most vulnerable is the back of the neck, so if you find yourself in that situation, keep long hair down, wear your hood up, or even carry a light scarf with you.

3. Skip the ice. Refreshing though it may be, ice water works against your stomach’s natural Fire. If you tend towards digestive issues (constipation, gas, diarrhea, etc.), room temperature water is your friend! Bonus tip: try eating more steamed veggies and warm meals instead of salads and smoothies if you have tummy troubles.

4. Embrace JOMO, the “Joy of Missing Out!” Summer calendars fill up quickly, but know your limit and make time to relax and reset.

If you’re feeling out of balance, especially during peak heat or later as we move into fall (seasonal transitions are often difficult for the body), seek out your local acupuncturist. Acupuncturists balance the bodies and will support you in feeling your absolute best!