The Fire Element: SUMMER
by Allison Bower, L.AC., M.AC
The internal organs are much more than mere physical structures in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). They are complex systems also involving aspects of the mind, emotions and spirit. Not only does each organ have a physiological function, it has functions at the invisible level of vital energy, or Qi. Each organ is uniquely related to a body tissue, a sense organ, emotion, taste, sound, climate, and a direction, among seemingly endless range of correspondences. These associated qualities are organized in TCM’s theory of Five Elements, and this theory provides the practitioner with a comprehensive framework to understand diagnose, and treat health problems.
If you think of the hot summer heat then you know instantly that this is the season of Fire. This means that the Heart and it’s paired organ, the Small Intestine, are predominant now, meaning their energy is at it’s strongest. Each day their peak time is between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm. The heart performs many functions that keep you healthy.
It provides a home for your spirit. Your heart is home to your Shen or spirit. Considered the King of the Organs your Heart provides the soul force that coordinates all activity—physical, mental, and spiritual—in your being. This King processes all the messages or information constantly circulating between all the organs and throughout your entire body. Maintaining a peaceful Heart helps ensure the health of your whole body.
The Heart governs your mind. TCM understands that all mental activity, including your emotions, is dependent upon the overall health of your Heart. It exerts direct control on all these functions, so if your Heart’s energy or Qi is strong and balanced you will experience sharp thinking, a balanced emotional life, good memory, a clear state of consciousness, as well as deep and restful sleep. When these areas of life show problems, they can indicate unbalanced Heart energy.
The Heart of course controls the circulation of blood. The Heart and the Liver control blood circulation. TCM views good blood circulation and adequate blood supply as the material basis for all mental activity. The Heart energy also has an influence on the state of your blood vessels. This function is reflected in your complexion. A pale complexion, for example can signal deficient blood.
For more information on SUMMER or to ask a question, contact Allison here.
If you think of the hot summer heat then you know instantly that this is the season of Fire. This means that the Heart and it’s paired organ, the Small Intestine, are predominant now, meaning their energy is at it’s strongest. Each day their peak time is between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm. The heart performs many functions that keep you healthy.
It provides a home for your spirit. Your heart is home to your Shen or spirit. Considered the King of the Organs your Heart provides the soul force that coordinates all activity—physical, mental, and spiritual—in your being. This King processes all the messages or information constantly circulating between all the organs and throughout your entire body. Maintaining a peaceful Heart helps ensure the health of your whole body.
The Heart governs your mind. TCM understands that all mental activity, including your emotions, is dependent upon the overall health of your Heart. It exerts direct control on all these functions, so if your Heart’s energy or Qi is strong and balanced you will experience sharp thinking, a balanced emotional life, good memory, a clear state of consciousness, as well as deep and restful sleep. When these areas of life show problems, they can indicate unbalanced Heart energy.
The Heart of course controls the circulation of blood. The Heart and the Liver control blood circulation. TCM views good blood circulation and adequate blood supply as the material basis for all mental activity. The Heart energy also has an influence on the state of your blood vessels. This function is reflected in your complexion. A pale complexion, for example can signal deficient blood.
For more information on SUMMER or to ask a question, contact Allison here.
