Embracing Late Summer in Chinese Medicine: Finding Balance in the Earth Element
The Earth Season
time of the Spleen & Stomach
Did you know that in Chinese medicine there’s an extra season? It’s called Late Summer, and it sits right between the heat of summer and the coolness of autumn. This special time, ruled by the Earth element, is all about grounding, nourishment, and transition. Think of it as nature’s way of helping us prepare for the changes ahead.
The Earth Element: Nurturing and Grounding Energy
In TCM, each season connects to one of the five elements—wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. Late Summer is all about the Earth element, which is the foundation of stability and nourishment. The Earth element is connected to the Spleen and Stomach, which are responsible for digestion and energy in our bodies — think Gut Health and Microbiome balance.
Just as the earth provides us with food through harvest, our digestion helps us extract energy from what we eat.
When our Earth element is balanced, we feel calm, centered, and nourished. But when it’s off-kilter, it can show up as worry, overthinking, or digestive issues like bloating or low energy. So, how can we keep this important element in harmony during Late Summer?
Common Late Summer Imbalances
During this transitional season, it’s not unusual to experience imbalances in the Earth element, which can affect the Spleen and Stomach. You might notice things like:
Digestive Upset: If your Spleen and Stomach are struggling, you could experience bloating, a lack of appetite, or even indigestion.
Low Energy: The Earth element is tied to your muscles, so if it’s not balanced, you might feel weak or extra tired.
Worrying or Overthinking: When you find yourself stuck in a loop of worry, it could be a sign that your Earth element needs some support.
Tips for Staying Balanced in Late Summer
Eat Earth-Friendly Foods: Focus on foods that support your digestion and nourish your body. Cooked, warming dishes like soups, stews, and grains are perfect during this time. Yellow and orange foods like squash, sweet potatoes, and carrots are also great choices. Try to avoid too many cold or raw foods, as they can make digestion harder for your body in a time when it needs rest and support.
Acupuncture: Chinese medicine focuses on alignment within the seasons. Acupuncture is an incredible way to harmonize your body with nature so that you transition from season to season, and from each stage of life.
Gentle Movement: Exercise is important, but it’s best to keep it moderate during this season. Activities like walking, yoga, or Tai Chi help you stay active without draining your energy.
Supplements & Herbs to Nourish the Gut: Chinese herbal medicine has a focus on gut health in general, but there are Spleen & Stomach focused formulas to give your digestion extra support. Supplements like colostrum contain potent prebiotics that support your microbiome, a host of peptides and antibodies that strengthen your immune system, and dozens of antioxidants and bioactive molecules that optimize cellular health — all very important for your digestive system. ARMRA colostrum is my go-to for sourcing due to their rigorous testing and high-standards. To help cover the cost they gave me a discount code for my patients! Use BEWELLWITHIZABEL for 15% off :)
Mindful Eating: Slow down and enjoy your meals in a peaceful environment. Chew your food well and avoid overeating. This simple practice can do wonders for your digestion and help reduce stress on your body.
Stay Grounded Emotionally: Late Summer is a great time to work on finding emotional balance. Whether it’s through meditation, journaling, acupuncture, or just spending some quiet time in nature, focusing on calming your mind can help both your mental state and digestion.
Create a Routine: Establishing a daily routine can help you feel grounded and stable. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day, eat your meals at regular intervals, and create habits that support your overall well-being.
Reflecting on Late Summer: A Season of Gratitude
Late Summer isn’t just about adjusting to the change of seasons—it’s also a time to reflect and give thanks for the abundance in your life. Just as the earth provides us with food, this season encourages us to appreciate the support we receive from those around us and the nourishment we gain from our efforts. It’s a perfect time to pause, express gratitude, and prepare for the cooler months ahead.
By aligning yourself with the rhythms of Late Summer and caring for your Earth element, you’ll be better equipped to handle the transition into autumn. Embrace this season as an opportunity to nourish your body and mind, and you’ll be setting yourself up for health and balance all year long.
