立夏 – Beginning of Summer
While many of us are still immersed in the beauty of spring blossoms, the solar term Lixia, or Beginning of Summer, quietly arrives. As we transition into warmer days, this season offers a valuable opportunity to cultivate energy that supports increased physical activity, growth, and outward expression.
At the same time, it is important to protect the heart, which faces greater demands due to rising temperatures and heightened activity. Supporting the spleen can help buffer the heart, particularly as it becomes more energetically taxed in the heat.
It’s also worth noting that excessive consumption of cold and raw foods during this time can weaken the spleen and stomach, leading to digestive imbalance. To maintain harmony, be mindful of your diet and avoid overindulging in cold, raw meals despite the heat of summer
Dietary Recommendations for 立夏 (Beginning of Summer)
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the heart corresponds to the Fire element and governs the mind (Shen), circulation, and emotional well-being. To support the heart and balance the body during the hot and damp conditions of early summer, consider incorporating the following foods:
1. Foods that Nourish the Heart and Calm the Spirit
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Lotus Seed (莲子) – Calms the mind, strengthens the spleen, and tonifies the heart.
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Lotus Bulb (藕) – Cools the blood, nourishes yin, and clears summer heat.
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Longan Fruit (龙眼肉) – Tonifies the heart blood and enhances emotional calmness.
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Red Dates (红枣) – Strengthen the spleen and nourish heart blood.
2. Foods that Clear Heat and Eliminate Dampness
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Mung Beans (绿豆) – Detoxify and cool the body; helpful for heatstroke prevention.
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Winter Melon (冬瓜) – Diuretic, clears summer heat, and reduces puffiness.
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Job’s Tears (薏苡仁) – Strengthens spleen function and dispels dampness.
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Bitter Melon (苦瓜) – Clears heat, improves digestion, and supports blood sugar balance.
3. Cooling Herbal Teas
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Chrysanthemum Tea (菊花茶) – Clears heat and supports eye and liver health.
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Honeysuckle Tea (金银花茶) – Dispels internal heat and supports the immune system.
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Luo Han Guo (罗汉果) – Soothes the throat and relieves dryness and coughing.
Lifestyle Tips for Early Summer
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Rise Early and Rest Later: Follow the natural rhythm of the season by waking with the sun and allowing for more daylight activity.
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Avoid Excessive Heat Exposure: Protect your heart energy by taking breaks in the shade and avoiding overexertion under direct sun.
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Practice Gentle Movement: Tai Chi, walking, and light exercise promote circulation without overheating the body.
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Regulate Emotions: Since the heart governs the mind (Shen), emotional balance is vital. Meditation, journaling, and creative expression can help soothe agitation and restlessness.