Warmth and Wellness: Summer Tips
While summer's warmth is something to celebrate and enjoy, it's important to be mindful of the heat, and the strong effects it can have on the body.
Dehydration is more common than we often realize. Physical symptoms include
profuse sweating,
dry mouth,
constipation,
nausea,
low appetite,
headache,
low motivation and
heart palpitations.
There are several things you can do to protect your body from the heat this summer.
Stay hydrated. Dehydration can cause stress to the heart and impair kidney health. Replace salts and minerals with electrolytes, such as Gatorade, coconut water or cactus water. You can also add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to cool water to replace electrolytes or add Chia seeds to your food for an extra boost of hydration. Avoid drinks with a large amount of sugar.
Opt for watermelon. Watermelon has also been used in China for centuries to hydrate. The fruit cools and cleanses the system, acting as a natural diuretic.
Pace yourself. It’s important to pace yourself when exercising outdoors. Seek cool places and air conditioners, and refrain from wearing dark colors or heavy materials outside.
Protect your skin. Apply sunscreen, and reapply regularly.
According to eastern medicine...
Each season is associated with the human body, as well as the elements. The summer season is associated with the fire element, as well as the heart and small intestine.
While most attribute the heart to the emotions of joy, happiness and love, it plays an additional role in Chinese medicine. It is responsible for the stability of the mind, and the connection between the two is very important.
When the heart and mind are not in sync, we can easily fall into melancholy, or even depressed states, which can lead to insomnia, agitation and a range of other negative experiences and emotions.
It’s particularly important during the summer months to nurture yourself and cultivate whatever hobby makes you feel balanced.Stay connected to nature by focusing on things like gardening, hiking, swimming, meditation and exercise.
Also associated with summer in eastern medicine is the small intestine. A balanced heart means the proper circulation of blood and energy and a properly functioning digestive system. The humidity in the summer often leads to physical symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches and achy joints. This heaviness in the air blocks the flow of energy through the body.
Maintain a good diet, stay hydrated, get a lot of rest, exercise and get your acupuncture for overall wellness.
Enjoy the rest of your summer!