Embracing Late Summer

As late summer arrives, we welcome its warm, humid days, gracefully transitioning toward cooler evenings and gentle afternoon thunderstorms. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), late summer is much more than a passing season—it's a unique phase, linked with the Earth element, that bridges the heat of summer and the crispness of autumn. Spanning from mid-August to the fall equinox, this time offers us an opportunity to pause, ground, appreciate the bounty around us, nourish, and cultivate stability for body and mind.

Stomach & Spleen: Your Foundation for Wellness

In TCM, the Stomach and Spleen are the organs most closely connected to late summer and the nourishing energy of the Earth element. These two partners form the core of our digestive system and play a powerful role in both physical and emotional health.

• Stomach ("Minister of the Mill"): Receives and breaks down food, extracting vital energy from what we eat. In addition to food, the stomach also helps to break down emotions and process them

• Spleen ("Source of Life"): Transforms and transports nutrients, manufactures Qi (life force) and Blood, and regulates the fluids within our body. In TCM, the Spleen is very different from the Western anatomical spleen. It’s not just about an organ in the upper left abdomen—it’s a functional system that governs digestion, energy production, distribution and fluid and Qi balance.

When these organs are well-balanced, digestion feels smooth and energy is stable. You may notice clarity of mind, steady concentration, and a strong sense of emotional centering.

But if Stomach and Spleen energy wanes, symptoms like nausea, bloating, fatigue, digestive discomfort, food sensitivities, and low vitality may appear. Emotionally, worry, excessive rumination, or an inability to feel supported can signal imbalance within the Earth element.

The Earth Element

The Earth element embodies nourishment, support, and stability—the spiritual "Mother" that gives and receives with compassion. It not only relates to how we digest food, but also how we process new ideas, experiences, and emotions.

• Physical balance promotes strong muscles and healthy digestion.

• Emotional harmony manifests as trust, openness, and the ability to receive as well as give care.

• Mental clarity results in focused thoughts and resilience against anxiety or obsession.

  
  

Aligning With Earth Energy - Qigong practice and Diet

Gentle, centering Qigong movements help you align body and spirit with the Earth's stabilizing force. Each slow, deliberate motion cultivates rootedness, calm, and inner harmony—especially as life feels busy or unsettled. Practice visualizing nourishing energy rising from the ground, supporting your digestion, clarity, and resilience.

• Healing sound: “Whoo” (used in Earth Qigong)

• Healing color: Yellow (think of sunflowers or autumn grain)

As temperatures begin to cool, gradually incorporate more warming and grounding foods: ginger, squash, pumpkin, fennel, mustard greens.Avoid excessive cold drinks and raw foods, as these can

dampen Spleen energy. Cook gently—light steaming or sautéing with water is best. Limit heavy barbecued foods to prevent disruptive "fire" energy, which may trigger anxiety or restlessness.

Late Summer Reflection

Let the Earth element guide you toward balance and harmony, both within and around you. Be intentional about taking the time to slow down, savor the abundance of the summer harvest - whether from your garden or from your experiences.Connect mindfully with the stability that Mother Earth provides. Through gentle movement, mindful eating, and nurturing self-care, you can build resilience for body, mind, and spirit—preparing for the transitions ahead as autumn approaches.

'Stand firm in your roots, and you will bend gracefully in the storm.' — Unknown