Fire element - next summer is sure to come

Strengthening our health as the seasons change. This time it is all about the fire element, which accompanies us through summer. Together we explore the special energy of summer and of the fire element and hear how herbs, nutrition, Qi Gong and Tai Chi can support and harmonise the fire element. Typical symptoms that summer can bring:

• Sleep disorders
• Restlessness
• Constipation
• Overexertion
• Sun allergy

According to the TCM calendar, summer already starts in mid-May. Having completed the 5 elements teaching, we now move from the wood element to the fire element.
Energetically, this brings additional dynamism. Our spirits are increasingly awakened by the ever more intense light and summer temperatures, which leads to a rise in activity levels.

This force reaches the two fire organs, the heart and the small intestine, particularly quickly. Through the outward-directed energy of the fire element, our heart and mind can now be very open and communicative. This leads to more joy in life, strong feelings and more movement.
However, overheating of our system or mental or physical overexertion can occur very quickly due to the driving energy of fire. This becomes dangerous when there are additional heating emotions.

Excessive stimulation from stimulants, electronic media or an overly full schedule can, however, also strain the heart and the mind and lead to great restlessness. Sleep disorders, emotional imbalances or constipation often occur. Eczema flare-ups or sun allergies are common, and the skin often reacts too.
Over the next few months it is therefore advisable to follow a diet that does not warm us too much. Easily digestible dishes with a moderate thermal nature are recommended. Make sure the ingredients are neutral and refreshing. However, they should not only be eaten cold or raw, but also prepared in the conventional way. To prevent a drop in energy and excessive build-up of dampness, it is important not to cool our digestive tract too much, even when it is warm outside.

In summer, the digestive tract quickly suffers from too much raw food, tropical fruit and salads, or ice-cold drinks, ice cream or yoghurt. Our digestion weakens and dampness quickly accumulates. In the following winter this shows up as persistent companions in the form of colds, coughs and mucus.

From a TCM perspective, cooling components in cooked ingredients are now suitable, such as fried courgettes, aubergines, tomatoes, radishes or celery.

All bitter foods such as rocket, artichokes, dandelion salad and tea increase heart energy in the diet. Coffee lovers can enjoy their coffee too, as coffee can also be healthy in moderation. In many southern countries, green or lukewarm mint tea is offered as a refreshment for good reason. These herbs have a strongly cooling effect and, drunk as tea, are extremely soothing and effective.