Summer + Fire + Heart

Summer is here and in Chinese Medicine we rejoice in welcoming the most yang time of the year. Yang indicates a full expansion of energy. The days are at their longest, the temperature is at its warmest, and we as humans are at our most active. In Charleston, we celebrate with frequent beach trips, water activities, outdoor festivals, and time spent with family and friends.

The organ associated with this yang time of year is the heart, associated with the Fire element of Chinese Medicine. The heart is considered the empress, reigning over all the other organs, and because of this, it is important to have a healthy heart, or fire element. Lui Zhou, a 6th century philosopher states, “If the spirit is at peace, the heart is in harmony; when the heart is in harmony, the body is whole.”

When the heart’s fire is glowing in balance, it can manifest with:
-Deep, restorative sleep
-A balanced excitement for life
-A strong sense of inner stillness and silence
-The ability to articulate with clarity and ease
-Heartfelt, meaningful relationships
-Good circulation to the limbs

When the heart’s fire is burning out of control, it can manifest with:
-Agitation, anxiety, nervousness, mania, and fright
-Insomnia, or vivid, disturbing dreams
-Dramatic, difficult relationships
-Heart palpitations, night sweats, panic attacks
-Blockages in the throat or tongue due to unvoiced expression
-Feeling lost, confused or unable to focus in life

Now that we find ourselves in the heart of summer’s heat, reach out if we can support you through this season. We’ve been aiding numerous patients with headaches, pain, fertility, menstrual discomforts, digestive upset, anxiety, trouble sleeping, cardiovascular health and neurological conditions, among others. Schedule an appointment or be in touch to find out how we can help.