The Season of FIRE

Your guide to

Summer | the season of

The season of FIRE is that of harnessing the energy from the sun.

It is about reaching outwards and maximizing energy.

After the rapid growth and expansion of Spring, we are now able to enjoy the peak of energy.

We find ourselves gathering around beach bonfires or tasty BBQ’s, and we should be experiencing sustained energy as the days have been longer and hotter.

The FIRE element is the only element that correlates to four primary organ system.

In TCM the FIRE element is representative of the HEART and SMALL INTESTINE, the PERICARDIUM and SAN JIAO (TRIPLE BURNER).

The HEART has the most important role as the Emperor of all the other organ systems.

The HEART governs the blood as it is responsible in the circulation of the blood. The Heart controls the blood vessels and is responsible for our sweat. The Heart manifests in our skin complexion and houses the Mind (Spirit). The emotion of the FIRE organ systems relate to JOY:

“Joy makes the Mind peaceful and relaxed, it benefits the Nutritive and Defensive Qi [immunity] and it makes the Qi relax and slow down”

- An Explanation of Acupuncture Points, 1654

The SMALL INTESTINE controls the receiving and transformation of food and drink. It is responsible for separating fluids. The SMALL INTESTINE influences mental clarity and judgment, allows us to make clear decisions (the Gall Bladder gives us courage to make decisions).

The PERICARDIUM is the master of the HEART, as it is the actual protective lining of the Heart. But it functions as the first line of defense to ward off pathogens.

The SAN JIAO (TRIPLE BURNER) has to role to protect the internal organ systems from the attack of pathogens.

When we are in harmony with this FIRE element, we find joy and contentment in our life.

We have good sleep, abundant energy, and are at ease with our emotions.

More TCM insights on the Blog

Rituals

ACUPRESSURE

An acupuncture point, found at the wrist crease on the side of your pinky finger, is called SHENMEN | MIND DOOR. This point is a crucial point to nourish Heart blood to settle the mind.

If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed in a social situation, unable to sleep at night, or just feeling out of your body, massage this point gently.

Use your finger or a soft pen to apply gentle but even pressure for the count of 5 as you inhale. Release the pressure for the count of 5 as you exhale. Repeat this 5 times on each wrist.

HEART COHERENCE

Summer is the perfect time to catch the morning sun for a Heart Minded meditation.

If you can start your day by absorbing the warmth and glow from the rising sun, it will offer you a lightness of heart and energy for the day.

My favorite Heart Coherence Meditation is offered by a dear friend, Bree Melanson.

If you want to start with just a quick meditation, I really enjoy starting my day with Sarah Blondin.

If you do not want to meditate, but still affect your Heart, this can be a great track for you to listen to as you sit at your desk or drive to work.

FLOWER ESSENCES

If you’re finding yourself feeling fatigued and not sure about your life choices, then your Heart is in need of some subtle yet profound support.

I love to lean on Flower Essences, when a burden becomes to heavy to bear.

Adding 3 drops of Olive, 3 drops of Aspen, and 2 drops of Scleranthus to your morning water can set you on a path of ease for the day.

OLIVE: restores mental and physical energy

ASPEN: encourages positive potential

SCLERANTHUS: aids in decision making

The season of Summer is the perfect time for community, sitting back and doing nothing, and enjoying the fruits of your labor.

FOOD IS MEDICINE

Summer brings us less hunger, and food that is filled with water and nutrients. It is important to keep hydrated during the warm summer day, and food is our perfect ally during this season:

WATERMELON | CUCUMBER | TOMATO | NECTARINES | ASPARAGUS

This seasonal treasures are amazing at nourishing us and providing water. They are charged with the heat of the sun, and we cannot help but feel invigorated when we eat this summer bounty.

Summer is also the perfect time to make your own Sun Tea. I like to take a big mason jar filled with with fresh, or dried herbs, and let it soak up the golden rays of the sun. Growing up, my father would make us a strawberry and mint sun tea that was always so refreshing.

Here is a recipe for a Heart Opening Sun Tea:

In a 20 ounce Mason (or any other canning) Jar combine:

1/2 teaspoon of dried Rose
1/2 teaspoon of Calendula
1/2 teaspoon of Nettle
1/2 teaspoon of Mint
optional for caffeine: 1/2 tablespoon of black tea

Fill with water to top. In the morning place outside in direct sun, and shake every time you walk past it. By the time that the day becomes it’s hottest, your tea should be ready to enjoy with a squeeze of lime and a little bit of honey. Be sure to strain the herbs, and for refreshment, add a few cubes of ice.

Start supporting your FIRE element today

Begin your healing Rituals

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