Welcome Summer and Fire Element

Summer is officially here! It arrived on June 21 at 9:57 AM CST. This is the time to focus on the Fire Element, a time where Yang energy is at it’s highest. It is also time to support the organs associated with this element by eating the foods that nourish them.

The Heart and Small Intestine are the organs associated with the Fire Element.

Heart is our supreme ruler and helps us see clearly and compassionately. Heart houses our Shen (Spirit) which in turn bring us joy and passion. When Heart is out of balance, there is a lack of joy, we have trouble seeing clearly, and tend to become agitated.

Small Intestine sorts pure from impure both physically and emotionally. By taking care of this organ, it will also support another important organ, the Gallbladder. Gallbladder helps support decision-making. When Small Intestine is out of balance, there is much difficulty in making clear choices.

What can you eat to help support these organs during the Summer season?

Start by enjoying cooling foods. Summer is HOT (especially this summer), by consuming foods that are cooling in nature, you will increase the amount of Yin in your body. Balancing Yin and Yang is essential to maintain your health. Cooling foods such as: Watermelon, Cucumbers, Avocados, and Spicy Peppers are beneficial.

Red is the color associated with the Fire Element. Consuming foods that are red in color help support the Heart as well. Red foods such as: Rhubarb,Cherries, Strawberries, Red kidney bean, and Red meat strenghten Heart.

Including digestive and bitter foods help support Small Intestine’s function. Ginger, Rosemary, Chamomile, Arugula, Kale, Celery, and Parsley. Digestive foods help stimulate the breakdown in the Small Intestine.

Embrace Summer for all that it brings. Embrace the heat and cool down by eating cooling foods or enjoy your time with loved ones who bring you joy by the river or lake. Now is the time to nourish Heart and the joy it can bring to you!