We are often asked, “What is the fifth season in Five Seasons Healing?” This season is called late summer, and fortunate for us, we’re deep in it right now. In the Tri-State area, we’ve been gifted with days radiating a warm sunny glow and evenings that are mild and pleasant.
The Fifth Season: The Golden Hour of the Year
Late summer, often referred to as the “Indian summer” in Western cultures, holds a special place in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is the transitional buffer season, a period of balance between the burgeoning yang energies of spring and summer and the retreating yin energies of autumn and winter. Just like its Western counterpart, it’s a season of warmth and beauty, and it comes with its own set of health considerations.
A Time of Harmony and Balance
In TCM, late summer is seen as a harmonious period. Around where I live in the Hudson Valley, this time of year feels palpably different than summer and fall. It’s still sunny but it’s a milder warmth than the intense heat of summer and while the evenings and early mornings have cooled, it is not yet as brisk as what you find in autumn.
It’s as if we are paused at a standstill on the hot-cold seasonal pendulum. The weather is mild, the days are still long, and the natural world is at its peak. It’s a time when the body’s energy is balanced, and the mind is clear. However, this balance can be easily upset if not cared for properly.
Caring for Yourself During Late Summer
To maintain optimal health during this transitional season, we recommend the following:
- Focus on Digestion: Late summer is associated with the Earth element which is in charge of healthy digestion. Consume foods that are easy to digest, such as cooked vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid heavy, greasy, and overly sweet foods. Specific foods that are beneficial during this season include:
- Sweet potatoes: Rich in beta-carotene and fiber, sweet potatoes can help support digestion and immunity.
- Mung beans: These beans are known for their cooling properties and can help balance the body’s heat.
- Lotus root: This root vegetable is believed to nourish the spleen and stomach, and it’s often used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat digestive disorders.
- Mind Your Emotions: As the transitional season, this time can be one of emotional turmoil. Practice mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing to help manage stress and anxiety and bring you back to your natural balance.
- Prioritize Rest: The body needs ample rest to recharge during this time of transition. In modern life, late summer sees many of us plug back into a regular work and school schedule after some summer relaxation and travel. Aim to return to a regular sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine. Pro tip: plug your phone in AWAY from your bedside table.
- Stay Hydrated: The warm weather can lead to dehydration. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body hydrated. You can also consume hydrating beverages like herbal teas or coconut water and other electrolyte rich drinks.
- Move Mindfully: Engage in gentle exercises like yoga, tai chi or qigong.
- Spend Time in Nature: Connect with the natural world by taking walks, gardening, or simply enjoying the outdoors. There is no better way to experience the seasons than spending time immersed in nature.
- Tune up with Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine: These can help to restore balance and address specific health concerns.
Embrace the Golden Hour
Late summer is a beautiful and transformative time. By following these TCM recommendations, you can enjoy the season to the fullest and maintain your overall well-being. So, embrace the golden hour and let the harmony of this special season nourish your body and soul.
