Traditional Chinese Medicine Late Summer Season

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the year is divided into five seasons, with Late Summer representing a unique and often overlooked period. This season is a time of transition between the peak of Summer and the cool, inward energy of Autumn. It is a time of Harvest, when we reap what we have sown. We gather the fruits of our labour. This is true in terms of health as well as for our crops. 

Traditionally, Late Summer is governed by the Qi of the Earth or Pi Zangfu and it is this particular influence that can bring us improved health or an array of disharmonies within the body at this time.

Pi Zangfu

The notion of Pi in Traditional Chinese Medicine covers a wide variety of human functions and activities. Among which some of the more prominent include: 

• Its responsibility for the body’s ability to transform food and drink into Qi – the vital energy necessary for life. 
• It’s responsible for separating out and getting rid of the waste products in daily living. 
• Its function of transporting the Qi throughout the entire person. 

When Pi function is not working optimally there tends to be a variety of “digestive” disorders and these can get worse in Late Summer.

Mental aspect of Pi Zangfu

On a more mental level, Pi is responsible for transforming and transporting ideas. Failure in respect of this function can manifest as overthinking and repetitive or even obsessive thinking. Ideas can stick in the mind and mental clarity will suffer. The person will not be able to separate good ideas or thoughts from bad ones.

What weakens Pi function?

Humidity or Dampness “Distresses” Pi, so if the weather in Late Summer is Damp, clarity of Mind and efficiency of “Digestion” on all levels can be impaired. Other Damp-related symptoms like certain types of pain in the joints can also become worse during this season.

To support the Spleen during Late Summer, it can be helpful to eat foods that are warming, easy to digest, and nourishing. Avoiding cold, raw, and overly sweet foods is also advised, as they can burden the digestive system and create dampness which damages Pi function.

If you feel your Pi function may be in need of support, why not make an appointment with one of our Acupuncture Practitioners. Traditional Chinese Medicine Acupuncture treatment is uniquely tailored to each individual and can offer advice on how best to support your Pi function at this time of year. All of our members are fully insured and recognised by all the major health insurance companies.