Summer in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is characterized by the most Yang energy of the year. The days are long, the sun is shining bright, and the world around us is fully alive. This is the season of abundance, joy, expression, and movement. It’s a time to be active, creative, and to connect both with others and with ourselves.
Summer corresponds to the Fire element and is governed by four meridians: the Heart, Pericardium, San Jiao (Triple Burner), and Small Intestine. These organs work together to govern circulation, connection, and transformation, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
The Heart: The Emperor of Organs
In TCM, the Heart is known as the “Emperor” of the body. It governs the Blood and controls the blood vessels, ensuring proper circulation. It also houses the Shen, often translated as the mind or spirit, and plays a central role in consciousness, sleep, memory, and emotional well-being.
When the Heart is in harmony, we experience joy, clarity of thought, restful sleep, and meaningful connection with others. When imbalanced, symptoms may include anxiety, palpitations, insomnia, or difficulty focusing.
The Pericardium: The Heart’s Protector
The Pericardium is the Heart’s bodyguard. It protects the Heart from emotional and energetic shock, acting as a buffer against intense emotions or external stress. It also plays a role in relationships and intimacy, influencing our ability to connect and open up emotionally.
The San Jiao (Triple Burner): Regulator of Heat and Fluids
The San Jiao is not a physical organ but a functional system that regulates water metabolism and heat throughout the body. It ensures that Qi, warmth, and fluids are properly distributed across the Upper (lungs/heart), Middle (spleen/stomach), and Lower (kidneys/bladder) burners.
A well-functioning San Jiao supports smooth digestion, efficient detoxification, and balanced body temperature, key during the heat of summer.
The Small Intestine: The Sorter of the Pure and Impure
The Small Intestine is responsible for sorting what nourishes us from what must be eliminated, both on a physical and mental level. It helps us gain clarity, not just through digestion, but also through discernment and decision-making.
Summer and Its Symptoms
A summer acupuncture tune-up may benefit you if you experience:
- Anxiety, restlessness, or emotional overwhelm
- Insomnia, especially with vivid dreams or waking hot and sweaty
- Palpitations or irregular heartbeat
- Mental confusion or forgetfulness
- Heat-related symptoms: mouth ulcers, red complexion, excessive sweating, or thirst
- Circulatory issues or swelling
- Low energy or burnout despite external brightness
A Time to Shine and Connect
Summer is the time to live outwardly, to gather with others, express yourself, and share your passions. It’s also a powerful time to nourish the Heart spirit with joy, laughter, meaningful connection, and creative expression.
Spend time outdoors, but don’t overdo it in the heat. Eat cooling, hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumber, mint, and leafy greens. Avoid excessive heat and spicy foods if you tend to overheat easily.
Most importantly, honor your joy. Smile, sing, dance, and surround yourself with people and experiences that warm your heart.