As the weather becomes hot and humid and the weather alternates between storms and sunshine all accompanied with heat and humidity, many of us feel sluggish and tired and have a difficult time coping with the weather. In addition, many of my Zen Shiatsu clients have been reporting digestive problems such as bloating and diarrhoea as well as respiratory problems such as colds and infections, all of which are common during late summer.
Unfortunately, we tend to eat the foods that make our symptoms worse. In response to tiredness, we reach for sugar, which after the initial lift in energy, makes us feel more tired later as our blood sugar drops and the spleen/pancreas energy is overworked. Fruits, fruit juices, soft drink, cold and iced foods reduce stomach energy and increase our symptoms. With the digestive system in trouble, the organs of elimination become overworked. Some will have bloating, constipation, diarrhoea or loose stools and colds and sinus infections then appear.
To change the dynamic, it’s essential to reduce the intake of refined sugars, raw fruits and fruit juices, soft drinks and cold foods. Replace with the naturally sweet taste of grains and vegetables, particularly corn, quinoa, millet, brown rice, chick peas, pumpkin, carrots, beetroot, squash, peas and amaranth – both the grain and the greens. An excellent remedy for bloating, diarrhoea and many other digestive problems is the kuzu drink remedy found at the Remedies page. Other recipes there are also useful at this time. The Congee recipe makes a great breakfast during late summer and for those who still want to eat some seasonal fruit, the Seasonal Fruits cooked with Kuzu, Ginger and Cinnamon is delicious.
Equally important is exercise. Stomach and spleen/pancreas (Earth) energy prefer movement so try to incorporate regular exercise such as walking in your day. Stretching the front of the body activates the Earth energy so yoga poses such as Bow pose, back bends and exercises that strengthen the lower belly. As well as physical nourishment, emotional care and nurturing is vital, so hug the people you love and accept their love for you.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact me via the Contact page.