SUMMER CARE
Chinese medicine, a practice with a history spanning 2,500 years, offers valuable insights into fostering and sustaining well-being. Emphasizing preventative medicine, it often recommends lifestyle adjustments, dietary choices, and gentle interventions like acupuncture, massage, and herbal medicine. The approach also encourages adapting dietary and lifestyle practices that are in line with seasonal changes. Because as the seasons change, our bodies are have different needs.
Each season, according to Chinese medicine, demands specific foods and activities for optimal health. Summer, characterized as a Yang time with heightened metabolic function, is linked to the Fire element, associated with the Heart organ. This season encourages a focus on being heart-centered and wholehearted, aligning with the brighter and energetically charged days.
LET’S GET MOVING
Chinese medicine suggests aligning daily routines with the sun’s natural pattern. In summer, increased sunlight provides extra energy for physical activity. Whether it’s a morning walk, evening stroll, yoga, biking, or hiking, engaging in regular physical activity brings numerous health benefits, including weight control, heart disease risk reduction, improved mental health, and better sleep.
EAT THE RAINBOW
In summer, an array of vibrant, fresh produce is available. Incorporating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables in your diet is crucial. These foods contain flavonoids, colorful pigments with antioxidant properties, promoting health. Consuming a diverse range of colorful plants is an easy way to increase flavonoid intake.
REST
Often summer brings more activity and social engagements, it’s crucial to avoid burnout. Incorporating practices such as meditation, massage, acupuncture, or other wellness practices can help maintain balance in mind, body, and spirit. Slowing down, seeking mindfulness, and appreciating the moment are powerful strategies for reducing stress and anxiety.
SKIN CARE & HYDRATION
In the summer months, there is an increased likelihood of sunburn and dehydration from the sun and heat. Making sure your skin is protected, use an organic, non-toxic, mineral-based sunscreen, even if it’s cloudy. To help prevent hydration, be sure to drink more water than usual.
EARTHING
Spending time outdoors not only promotes the optimal synthesis of vitamin D, boosts physical fitness, and reduces stress, but it also improves cognitive function and fortifies the immune system. Taking this a step further, you can enhance these benefits by practicing Earthing. Earthing, also referred to as Grounding, involves connecting with the Earth’s surface, usually by walking barefoot on natural terrain like sand, dirt, or grass. This scientifically-supported practice indicates that Earthing contributes to various health benefits, promoting overall well-being.
These practices can contribute to a strong, healthy, and vibrant summer & Root is committed to supporting you on this journey!