夏至(Xia Zhi), June 21, 2025. The Summer Solstice brings the longest day and shortest night of the year, when Yang energy peaks. Nature flourishes in full brilliance, yet the body must guard against excess heat that strains the Heart. This is the season of fire, warmth, and joy, but also of restlessness if unchecked. Foods that cool and hydrate—watermelon, cucumber, bitter melon—help protect fluids, while chrysanthemum or mint tea clears summer heat. Balance becomes the guiding principle: balance of activity with stillness, of work with restoration. Just as the sun begins its slow retreat after this peak, we too should temper outward energy with quiet reflection, preserving vitality for the months ahead.