大暑 Major Heat (Da Shu): The Peak of Summer Intensity

What Is Major Heat?

Major Heat, also known as Da Shu, marks the hottest period of the year in the Solar Term system. Occurring in late July, this Solar Term represents the peak of summer’s intensity, when heat and humidity are at their strongest.

Unlike earlier summer phases that build toward warmth, Major Heat is the culmination—conditions are no longer increasing, but fully present. This makes Da Shu a time of careful management rather than expansion.

The Meaning Behind the Name

The name Da Shu translates to “Great Heat” or “Major Heat.” It reflects the direct, observable reality of the environment rather than symbolism.

During Major Heat:

• Temperatures reach their annual peak

• Humidity is often high

• Physical and mental fatigue may increase

The name emphasizes extremity, reminding us that when something reaches its height, restraint becomes essential.

Major Heat in Traditional Chinese Medicine

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, summer corresponds to yang energy, outward movement, and activity, governed primarily by the Heart system. During Major Heat, yang is abundant externally, but this abundance can strain the body if not balanced.

This Solar Term is associated with:

• Increased stress on circulation and fluids

• Greater risk of dehydration or exhaustion

• Sensitivity to emotional agitation or restlessness

Major Heat calls for cooling and protection without depletion.

Seasonal Focus: Cooling and Preservation

Major Heat is not a time to push harder. Instead, seasonal care focuses on preserving fluids and calming excess heat.

Seasonal principles during Major Heat include:

• Eating lighter meals that are easy to digest

• Staying hydrated consistently rather than in excess

• Avoiding heavy, greasy, or overly spicy foods

• Reducing midday exertion and prioritizing rest

The goal is sustainability, not endurance.

Emotional and Mental Qualities of Major Heat

Emotionally, Major Heat can heighten irritability, impatience, or restlessness. People may notice:

• Difficulty concentrating in high heat

• Increased sensitivity to stress

• A stronger need for quiet or shade

Traditional Chinese Medicine recognizes these responses as natural under intense heat. Creating calm, predictable routines helps stabilize both mood and energy.

Major Heat as a Turning Point

Although Major Heat represents summer’s peak, it also marks the beginning of decline. After Da Shu, heat gradually loosens its hold, leading toward the End of Heat and the onset of autumn.

This makes Major Heat an important moment to:

• Avoid overexertion

• Protect long-term energy

• Prepare for the gradual shift ahead

How one responds now influences the ease of the seasonal transition to come.

Living in Rhythm With Major Heat

Major Heat invites moderation. By respecting the body’s limits, conserving fluids, and choosing rest over strain, the body remains resilient through summer’s most demanding phase.

Major Heat reminds us that intensity requires restraint.

When we respond to peak conditions with care and awareness, balance is preserved—not only through summer, but into the seasons that follow.

Way2Health • Seasonal Wisdom for Modern Living