TCM Tips For A Joyful Summer
Joy, as an emotional state, is seen as a manifestation of the Heart’s Qi or energy in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
From a TCM perspective, joy is not just happiness, but a feeling of deep satisfaction that comes from living a meaningful life.
When we experience joy, ___:
o the heart’s Qi expands.
o we feel light, open, and connected.
o it helps to regulate the heart’s rhythm.
o our blood circulation improves.
o it supports the body’s immune system.
Joy is associated with the heart and is believed to promote the flow of Qi throughout the body. The heart in Chinese Medicine is not only a physical organ but also a metaphorical one that is responsible for regulating blood circulation and housing the Shen (神), which is often translated as the Mind or Spirit. The Shen is said to be the essence of a person’s vitality, consciousness, and emotions. When your heart is healthy, the Shen is peaceful, and you feel content, happy, and clear-minded.
The heart’s Qi is said to be most active during the summer season. This is a time when we can feel more joyful, playful, and sociable. The energy of the Fire element (like summer heat) can help us connect with others, express our creativity, and pursue our passions.
However, too much heat or overactivity during the Summer can also lead to exhaustion, dehydration, and irritability. Excessive joy or overstimulation can also damage the Heart’s Qi and lead to symptoms such as palpitations, insomnia, and/or restlessness.
To maintain a healthy Heart and balance during the summer season, TCM practitioners may use some method to help balance the system and emotion.
1) Herbal medicine prescriptions can help to balance the heart system, calm the spirit, tonify the Qi and replenish the yin in our body.
Some helpful examples for this are:
• Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan
• Chai Hu Jia Long Gu Mu Li Tang
• Gui Pi Tang
• Suan Zao Ren Tang
2) Acupuncture points regulate Heart Qi and Joy.
Common points used for this are:
• Shen men (HT7) – This is known as the “Spirit Gate” and is a powerful point to calm the mind and promote emotional well-being.
• Nei guan (PC6)
• San yin jiao (SP6)
3) can also help to regulate Heart Qi while improving emotional well-being. These practices can help to cultivate a sense of inner peace, joy, and contentment.
Examples of these healing practices are:
• Tai Chi
• Qigong
• Meditation
Following some simple lifestyle tips can help you maintain a healthy Heart and balance during the summer season. Let’s use this summer season to balance the heart Qi to promote joy in our day – to day experiences so we can improve our overall well-being and cultivate a more joyful, meaningful life.
It’s essential to consult with a qualified TCM practitioner to determine the best course of treatment for your specific health conditions and needs. We would love to support you on your journey to a summer (and life) filled with JOY. Please contact us now to start your summer balanced!