In Traditional Chinese Medicine and Taoist wellness philosophy, summer is the season of the heart. It is a time of high energy, long days, and natural warmth — all of which correspond to the Fire element and the heart organ system. Following the seasonal wisdom of nature can help us align our body, emotions, and energy with the rhythms of the universe.
Why Nourish the Heart in Summer?
In TCM, the heart governs the blood and houses the spirit (Shen). When the heart is well-nourished, we feel joyful, calm, and emotionally balanced. However, during the heat of summer, excess Yang energy can disturb the heart, leading to restlessness, insomnia, irritability, and poor concentration.
To support your summer wellness, we recommend a few key practices:
🕒 Daily Rhythm
- Wake up early, around sunrise, and avoid staying up late
- Take a short midday rest if needed, but avoid heavy naps
- Go to bed before 10:30 p.m. to prevent heart fire from rising
🥗 Diet & Drinks
- Eat light and hydrating foods — melon, cucumber, mung beans, lotus root, and seasonal fruits
- Use herbs like chrysanthemum, goji berry, and lotus seed to calm the heart
- Avoid overeating, especially spicy or greasy foods
- Drink warm water; avoid excessive cold drinks, which damage the stomach Qi
🌿 Qigong Practice
We recommend the following practice routines:
- 10-Minute Shoulder & Neck Qigong – to release tension that can disturb sleep and heart qi
- Ba Duan Jin – smoothes meridian flow and strengthens the whole body
- Governor Vessel Routine – clears heart fire and nourishes the brain
- Practice during early morning or early evening when it is cool and peaceful
💖 Emotional Harmony
- Cultivate joy, gratitude, and kindness
- Avoid excessive anger, excitement, or anxiety, as they disturb heart Shen
- Slow down, breathe deeply, and enjoy nature — especially flowers, lakes, and the moon
🌞 Taoist Wisdom
As Laozi said, “Stillness is the root of action.” In the active season of summer, it is even more important to maintain inner stillness. When our heart is calm, our energy is clear, and our health thrives.
Let this season be a time of warmth and wellness — not only in the environment around us, but within our own hearts.
Stay connected, stay well,
Taoist Wellness Team | Master Shiqing