In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), each season is associated with specific organs, and reflects the interplay between nature and the human body. The organs associated with the summer season in TCM are the Heart and the Small Intestine.
Heart
The Heart is considered the ruler of all organs and is the organ most associated with the Fire element. It is responsible for governing blood circulation and ensuring proper functioning of the cardiovascular system. And in TCM, the Heart houses the Shen, which refers to the mind, consciousness, and spirit.
All over the world, the Heart has a strong affiliation with love and relationships and this is also true in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It’s the Heart’s affinity for emotion and connection that allows us to relate to others. Much like a roaring fire with flames growing and merging, the Heart strives for union – as it experiences more unity and love, the Heart fills with joy and radiates this to others.
In this receiving and giving of unity, love and connection, a vulnerability emerges. The Heart can be nurtured, but it can also be hurt and damaged. In this way, the Heart is our most vulnerable organ, open to both joy and pain, creating a challenging paradox.
The Heart Protector and Triple Heater
Because of this vulnerability, the body has constructed defenses – the Heart Protector (or Pericardium) and Triple Heater. The Heart Protector surrounds the Heart and determines whether someone is friendly or hostile, allowing us to be open to those who we deem trustworthy or on the defensive when someone is considered a threat.
The Triple Heater gauges everything from the temperature of the environment to the “vibe” of a room, deciding whether a situation is safe or uncomfortable. The Triple Heater also is associated with external psychic abilities such as predicting a car accident.
It should be mentioned that summer is the only season with two additional, supportive organs.
Small Intestine
The Small Intestine is responsible for the absorption and transformation of nutrients from food. In TCM, it is associated with the process of separating the pure from the impure, both in a physical and metaphorical sense, ie. separating the truth from the untruth, thereby offering mental clarity and discernment.
During the summer season, the Heart and Small Intestine are believed to be particularly vulnerable and require extra care. According to TCM principles, imbalances in these organs during summer can manifest as symptoms such as heart palpitations, insomnia, excessive sweating, digestive issues, and emotional instability.
To support the health of the Heart and Small Intestine during the summer, try practicing these tips:
- Eat a balanced diet: Consume cooling foods like fruits, vegetables, and herbs, while avoiding greasy, fried, and spicy foods.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and herbal teas to support proper fluid balance and prevent dehydration.
- Engage in moderate exercise: Gentle activities like walking, tai chi, or yoga can help maintain a healthy circulation and balance of energy. Protecting against excessive heat: Avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat and use appropriate sun protection to prevent overheating.
- Manage emotions: Cultivate a calm and balanced emotional state by practicing stress reduction techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and spending time in nature.
- Smile: Look in the mirror and smile at yourself. Do this multiple times until you feel a true smile emerging and gratitude for yourself.
