SUMMER REFLECTIONS
by Doren Day, L. Ac.
The hummingbirds have returned, buzzing and dive-bombing around my house. I smile each year the first time I hear that sound: it means Summer has arrived.
The season of Summer is associated with the Element of Fire. Both the season and the element play a very important role in our lives. In the summer we feel ourselves relaxing and expanding. We become more open to the world around us. We connect with others, we play.
Just as we need the warmth and relaxation of Summer after a cold Winter and active Spring, we need the warmth and joy and of the Fire element. What a relief it is after a hard time when we can melt into a hug in the arms of someone who loves us. Notice the healing that takes place when after a tense situation, we can laugh about it.
Think of a blossom opening its petals. What a beautiful expression a plant’s maturity. By opening itself, pollen can be exchanged and the process of life continued. The flower is so vulnerable, yet it holds nothing back. How are you opening your petals? Have you fully expanded into Summer? Are you in touch with the confidence, trust and joy of the Fire element?
The role that the Fire element plays in our lives is as vital as the season of Summer is to a year. Without that blossoming, without expansion and openness and joy, our lives would lack so much. When there is imbalance in the element of Fire it is as though summer never comes. Our lives may feel tight and rigid. We may feel isolated, lonely and distrustful. Sadness can take over. If you’ve ever felt sad and lonely at an occasion that was meant to be a happy celebration, then you have a sense of what life is like when the energy of Fire is missing. Some may try to fill the loneliness with lots of upbeat, social activities, but at the heart of things, there is no true blossom of joy.
The best way to address imbalances within the elements is through treatment by a Classical Five Element Acupuncturist. Here are some other ways that you can support your own health and enjoy the season of Summer:
Get into the rhythm: Ever notice how soaking up some sun slows you down? Enjoy the pace of a slow summer day, soak up some rays, listen to some mellow music, eat summer foods.
Laugh! Catch those funny moments and go with the impulse to laugh, get funny movies, go to a comedy club or just hang out with some friends and get silly.
Feel the love: Without saying anything, let yourself feel love as you look into the eyes of someone you care about.
Let your hair down: Go to or throw a party, go out dancing or drumming. Let your bigger, freer self come out to play.
Love yourself: In addition to getting out into the world, give yourself time by yourself. We all need some inward self-love in life. Make it a day of kindness to yourself.
