June 21, 2021
Summer Solstice or Xià Zhì (Chinese: 夏至 ) is the tenth of the 24 traditional Chinese solar terms, and marks the longest day of the year. This period will also see some of the hottest days of the year, with Yang energy in the atmosphere at its peak. In Chinese culture, the quintessential flower representing Summer, the Lotus Flower, will also be in full bloom during this period.
Here are some useful health cultivation tips for Summer Solstice (Xià Zhì):
1. Get plenty of rest. Sleep well during the Zi and Wu hours. Zi refers to midnight, 11 pm-1 am, and Wu refers to midday, 11 am-1 pm. A restorative, 30 minute midday nap can harmonize the body and balance internal yin and yang.
2. As this is still a hot, damp season, it is important to take steps to guard against summer heat symptoms such as malaise, fatigue, nausea, and various skin problems due to external dampness. Wear clothing appropriate to the weather and avoid direct sunlight during midday when the heat and UV index are at their highest.
3. Eat Chinese bitter melon or bitter gourd as its sometimes called. Commonly eaten during summer solstice in China, bitter melon has a natural heat-clearing and detoxifying effect. In Chinese cuisine, bitter melon is commonly used in soups, sauté dishes, braised with meat, or air-dried and infused as tea.
4. Consume seasonal foods that clear heat and general fluids, such as water melon, honeydew, cucumber, mung (green) beans, tomatoes, and ume plums (Prunus mume; 梅子)
For more information on seasonal health cultivation, schedule an appointment with one of our student interns or licensed practitioners at the Yo San University Blount Community Clinic. Tele-health consultations are also offered by our experienced senior practitioners. Call today. 310.577.3006.