This is a time to nourish our spirits, and find joy in our hot summer days and warm summer nights.

According to Chinese Medicine, summer is a time of abundant energy, long days and sunshine.  It is about expansion, growth, activity and creativity.  It relates to the element “Fire” and is about experiencing the emotion “Joy”!

They say that fire is symbolic of maximum activity, which means that it is a time of heat, outgoingness, and moving outward in nature and in our lives.

When the fire element is in balance, the heart is strong and healthy, mind is calm.  When the fire element is imbalanced, we may either lack joy (depression) or have excess joy (mania).

In human anatomy, the heart, mind, and spirit are ruled by the fire element.  Top priority should be given to the heart, mind, and spirit for staying healthy in summer.

So! One month of summer to go!

It is a good time to fit in a Juice Cleanse or Detox, before we move into autumn.  If you have not been active, it is not too late to take yourself for a swim, a bike ride or a nature walk.

I love summer!  Living on the Sunshine Coast of Queensland, we have such beautiful days and we have a range of beaches and hinterlands to get active amongst.

One thing I like to do is swim!

• At the beach amongst the waves.
• At the Pool – I like to wear flippers as it makes it more fun.
• In a rock pool or under a waterfall.

Other things I love to do are walk on the beach or amongst nature and do some Gym Exercises.

What do you like to do?  There are so many options.  Try something you enjoy!  You could:

• Take a bike ride.
• Go for a canoe or paddle on a stand up Paddle Board.
• Learn to Surf.
• Join a running club.
• Get out and do some gardening.
• Go to the Gym.
• Do some Yoga in the park, at home or at a class.
• Go fishing.
• Go sailing.
• Go snorkeling or diving.
• Go horse riding.

Tips for Summer Health

• Wake up earlier in the morning.
• Go to bed later in the evening.
• Rest at midday.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Aim to be calm and at peace.

Some Diet Tips

In summer, indigestion can easily occur, so a light and less-greasy diet is better. It is the perfect season to introduce some cooling foods into your diet. 

Here are some suggestions to keep you cool and balanced for the remainder of summe. These fruits and vegetables will help your body adjust its temperature and protect you during the long, hot summer days:

• Watermelon, Apricot, Lemon, Peach, Orange.
• Asparagus, Sprouts, Bok Choy, Broccoli, Corn, Cucumber
• Snow Peas, Spinach, Watercress, Seaweed.
• Cilantro, Mint, Dill.

Other helpful tips for the summer season

• Keep a jug of water with slices of lemon and cucumber nearby.
• Eat in moderation. Over consumption can lead to indigestion.
• Do not leave your food out for too long.
• Stay away from dairy, heavy, greasy, and fried foods.

Enjoy the last month of summer and I would love to know what else you would like to see in my Blogs?

Jaye :-)