Late Summer - the 5th Season!
Did you know that there are actually 5 Seasons in Chinese Medicine. Late Summer begins at the end of August and runs to the first day of Fall. It is the Season of Earth.
Each Season in Chinese Medicine belongs to one of the 5 Elements – Earth (Late Summer), Metal (Fall), Water (Winter), Wood (Spring), and Fire (Summer). Earth being Late Spring, it is the Season of heat, fullness, full growth, bringing life down to a slower pace, and preparing for Metal (Fall). It is time to transition from Yang to Yin energy and turn inward to the coolness of Fall and Winter.
Each Element not only corresponds to a certain season, but also corresponds to a certain organ or energy system within the body. Earth (Late Summer) is the season associated with the stomach, spleen, and pancreas. Earth (Late Summer) also governs the muscles and is related to the mouth.
Here are some other characteristics of Earth – Color: Yellow, Nature: Yang to Yin, Organ: Stomach/Spleen, Emotion: Worry/Pensive, Taste: Sweet, Body Condition: Damp.
This is a brief season and is one of transition and relaxation. The crazy days of Summer are gone and we are now shoring up our energy sources for the cold to come. Your may be feeling more fatigued than a few weeks ago. This low energy is the effect of the exertion, full energy and emotional stress of Summer (Fire).
So these are the days to do whatever puts a smile on your face and reduces your stress level! Make sure you get lots of rest, gentle exercise, and please eat healthy foods to shore up your energy for the months to come.
Best and be well,
Stacy Lauren-Kon LAc MSOM
Mend Family Acupuncture and Healthcare
