Over the last few days, summer has shown us that it truly has arrived! While heat beats down upon us, a rising of heat occurs within us. The subtle influences of the seasons can be elusive. Here at WoW, we are grateful for the many schools of thought that lay at the foundation of what we are called to do. This month, we’d like to share some of the knowledge we’ve graciously acquired, in hopes of shedding light on the sometimes lethargic experience of summer and to help support you in keeping cool and vitally well.

According to concepts of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), summer is a predominantly yang season. Yang is characterized by action, positivity and brightness. Also sunshine, fire, hardness, dryness, daytime, restlessness and heat. According to concepts of Ayurveda, summer is associated with the pitta dosha. Deepak Chopra says the following about doshas: “Known as mind-body types, the doshas express particular patterns of energy—unique blends of physical, emotional, and mental characteristics.” Qualities of pitta are fiery, hot, light, intense, penetrating and pungent. The sum of these qualities make for a hot and agitated condition, which surely most of us have experienced during the heat of July and August. The excessive yang/pitta nature of the summer months causes a rising of energy that contributes to an overly active mind – this can be part and parcel of anxiety and insomnia. The body craves more yin components to cool excessive pitta. Let us tell you just what some of those “yin components” could be:

– From a nutritional perspective, be sure not to skip meals or wait until you’re really hungry before eating. Specifically, think of these cooling foods: cucumber, cauliflower, asparagus, lettuce, fennel, dill, cilantro, celery, zucchini, grapes, mangoes, berries, melons, avocados, oranges, pomegranates, poultry, sunflower and coconut oils, honey, oats and barley.
– When considering aromatherapy, think clary sage, geranium, lavender, peppermint or chamomile. Our I Am At Ease room spray is your best bet this time of year.
– Dress and surround yourself with cooling colors, such as blue, green and silver.
– Spend lots of time in nature, especially taking walks by moonlight.
– Flower Essences have specific remedies to offer for the periodic enervation of summer. Consider Madia, which imparts explicit thinking, focus and concentration. Another good one is Peppermint, imparting mindful clarity and mental vigilance.

Here in Alberta, we anticipate the arrival of our short and blessed summer with bated breath. Now that the season is upon us, may you all enjoy each warm moment, all the while being mindful of summer’s capacity to spark the fire within. We are honored to hold a cooling space for you here at WoW if you find your fire burning out of control.

Happy summer everyone!

Roberta Shepherd and the Team at Wellness on Whyte