When our yellow peaches are ripe, I know we are in the heart of summer. For several weeks we have been giving away baskets full of peaches after classes and freezing some for winter smoothies. “Peach Season” alerts me to pay attention to the summer energies. It is a time of expansion, creativity, activity and abundance.
In the Chinese Five Element theory, summer is the time to live life to its fullest, a time to celebrate each day, each moment. The attributes corresponding to the summer season are the heart organ, the color red, the fire element, and the resolving of anxiety with acceptance and joy. This is the time to enjoy the warm summer days and nights with family and friends, take vacations, garden, and undertake new projects and adventures.
The heart, mind, and spirit (shen) are ruled by the fire element, the symbol for maximum activity or outgoingness. Attending to the heart, mind, and spirit is helpful for staying healthy in summer, as summer is a time to nourish our spirits and harness our greatest potential.
During summer it is natural to awaken earlier, go to bed later, and have a mid-day siesta. It is important to stay refreshed with plenty of water, perhaps with cucumbers and lemons slices added. You may feel best if you eat light meals, incorporating lots of local, fresh vegetables and staying away from heavy greasy food. Of course starting or continuing your qigong practice is a powerful method to stay in balance and feel harmonized with the season. Integrating and embracing this information can help to support us in living within the laws of nature and enjoying life more.
As a side note, you may like to read this short article “New Research – Qi Gong Lowers Blood Pressure”.
For me, this summer is also a time of deep gratitude for the abundant blessings in all parts of my life. One of those blessings is being able to pass on the qigong teachings to you. Thank you and happy summer!
