June 5th, 2012. "Grain in Ear", the 3rd small Summer season arrives

    In 2012, the season of "Grain Fills" arrives on June 5th. Celestial longitude: 75 degree. For some of the seasonal information please read this article from last year.

    Here are some additional information: 


    As the temperature and humidity keeps increasing, chances of people getting infectious diseases increases as well. In Chinese traditions, starting from this small season into the next 30 days is called “the hundred-poison month”. Some insects, especially mosquito start to become more active, along with the humidity and heat, people gets infected much easier. Although it sounds serious, the ways to avoid get it is not hard. First, maintain good personal hygiene. Make sure to take shower in time, change clothes often and clean the living area well. Second, eat light food and sleep well. Eat light and fresh food to give your body a clean and active condition; sleep well to make sure our immune system is in good shape. 

    During this humid and hot season, many of us, either actively or passively, tend to use air conditioner quite often. Air conditioner no doubt was one of the greatest human inventions, but just like everything that exists, if there is one side, there must be another side. Many health problems are also directly or indirectly caused by using air conditioner. But the true cause of our health problem is actually the decline of some our body mechanisms. As we have mentioned, spring and summer are the seasons to nourish our Yang energy, which will “surface” to skin level during summer seasons. Air conditioner creates a unnatural cold environment that will suppress and harm our surfaced Yang energy thus cause many internal issues such as cold, skin diseases, joint pain and digestion issues. TCM sees “air conditioner syndrome” being the result of harmful cold invades the body system. Therefore the way of treating it is very clear and simple, that is to remove the cold from the skin level and dampness from the internal organ system. 

    Here we recommend a very simple and effective food remedy, fresh ginger root tea (drink). Ginger root is known for its functions of sweating, removing cold, warming the stomach and detoxing. If you use or have to use air conditioner very often, make this drink by simply slicing the ginger root into small pieces and steeping them with boiled hot water. You can also add a little bit of brown sugar or honey. With this drink you will feel heated and start to sweat, but this is the process of both the internal virus and cold being removed. When you have a cold or stomach issue you can also use this drink as the food remedy.But please remember, although it is a nice drink itself, the best time to drink it is morning or before noon time, drink much less or not at all in the afternoon and evening, especially before you go to bed. Also if you surfers from joint or muscle pain, you can make a bigger portion of this drink but use a warm towel to apply externally to the painful area. After all, the basic rule is to try to use less air conditioner possible.“A cool mind makes a cool body” is the ancient saying. Maintain a balance emotional condition is just as effective as a nice breeze of cool air.

May 20th, 2012. "Grain Fills", the 2nd small Summer season arrives

    In 2012, the season of "Grain Fills" arrives on May 20th. Celestial longitude: 60 degree. For some of the seasonal information please read this article from last year.

    Here are some additional information:

    As the heart (pericardium) being the seasonal organ, summer time is the season to nourish the heart system. The taste of the heart system is bitterness. In the hot summer days, bitter taste can enter and balance the heart system. In TCM this is known as “lowering the heart fire with bitterness”. When the heart system is cooled down in the summer, our entire body will feel right. This is the general rule but since bitter foods are usually cold in nature as well, so they are not recommended for those who has stomach issue (especially cold related).

    We love raw and cold food or drink in the summer as they make us feel cooled down and comfortable. But during early summer time as the weather and temperature has not stabilized yet, too much raw and cold will harm the digestion system and cause many related symptoms, especially for children and seniors. However, if we learn more about them and take them in the right way, these food and drink will then benefit us. First we need to know what are “raw” and “cold”. In general foods and drinks that are not cooked on fire are “raw”, such as fruit, vegetable, raw fish, raw meat and mineral water. Foods and drinks that have been stored in the refrigerator for a while, they are “cold” when being taken out of the refrigerator, such as leftover food, ice cream, cold drinks and yogurt. Here are some general tips about these foods and drinks.

1. Young children should not take “cold”, but some “raw” is ok. Young children are high in Yang energy, this strong Yang energy can help children to process the “raw” food without harming the digestion system. But “cold” food holds more cold energy therefore the chance of the cold staying inside the system and harm the spleen and liver system is higher. But if after heavy outdoor activity then take some “cold” drink or food is ok as the cold will be released with the sweat. 
2. One common mistake we often make is to drink “cold” during meal. It feels refreshing but internally it will lower the temperature of the stomach. Low temperature cause reduction of the stomach acid secretion and this can cause digestion related issues like bloating and chronic stomach diseases. Also, as the acid level decrease, more bacteria can survive then enters the intestinal system and cause diarrhea, typhoid and enteritis.

May 5th, 2012. "Beginning of Summer", the 1st small Summer season arrives

    In 2012, the season of "Beginning of Summer" arrives on May 5th. Celestial longitude: 45 degree. For some of the seasonal information please read this article from last year.

    Here are some additional information: 

    
    During fall and winter seasons we have talked about nourishing the YIN energy, when comes to spring and summer we will focus on how to nourish the YANG energy. The 3 summer months of the year have the strongest YANG energy, if we take advantage of these months we will receive stronger result, especially for those who suffer from cold and dampness related symptoms. Ancient wisdoms taught us that during summer we should NOT “loathe” the sun. No one really loathe the sun but today we do lots of thing to avoid it such as use air conditioner all the time, intensively usage of sun blocker, drink and eat cold, and sleep in the cold. Moderation is always the rule of thumb, enjoy the sun and heat doesn’t mean you have to be burned and have heat stroke. Simply try to use less air conditioner, especially in the car and bedroom (the 2 places where you have more control of). Also eat and drink less ice cold stuff. Sunlight is the ultimate source of YANG energy, and the best time to be in the sun is morning time around 9-10 o’clock when the temperature is mild and the oxygen level is high. So during this time go to the park or forest, facing the sun doing some aerobic exercise will be ideal.

    
    During noontime and midnight hours, our body’s YIN and YANG energy is doing the transition. The best thing we can do to NOT bother the transition is sleep. During summer time, as the heart being the main organ and its hour being 11am to 1 pm, a noontime nap becomes more important. Having a good noon nap not only will help us avoid the harmful noon heat, also recover us from the fatigue. Summer time the day is longer than night and people tends to go to bed much later and not have enough sleep. In order to increase the resting time for our body, a noon nap is necessary, especially for seniors who often have less deep sleep at night. On the other hand, 1pm to 3pm are usually the hottest time of the day. Too many activities during the hottest hours can cause harm on general body energy which can result in symptoms like dizziness, chest pain, heart-throb, dry mouth, nauseous and even fainting. Noon nap can pull us away from this heat and also ease the drossiness and fatigue caused by lunch. Here are some simple tips regarding noon nap: 

1. In general 30 minutes to 1 hour is the proper time for noon nap. A long nap can instead make people more tired and even increase the risk of stroke for some people. It can also affect our biological clock and lower the regular night sleep quality.
2. Do not lay down right after lunch. This will interfere with the digestion process and cause blood pressure drop or low blood supply in the brain. The correct way is to rest or slowly walk for 10 minutes after lunch then go take the nap. 
3. When we sweat more our blood becomes thicker and this is the predetermined condition for many symptoms. Make sure to hydrate your body well and avoid draught and damp cold area.

April 20th, 2012. "Corn Rain ", the 6th small Spring season arrives

    In 2012, the season of "Corn Rain " arrives on April 20th. Celestial longitude: 30 degree. For some of the seasonal information please read this article from last year.

    Here are some additional information:

    
    Again, as liver-gall bladder system being the organ system of the season, many symptoms are related to its condition. We have talked about the nature of the liver is “grow and express”, but the universal energy of this final spring season is usually very unstable. Caused by the quick switch between cold and heat or sun and rain, the liver system has to work hard to adjust itself in order to fit in. But due to many factors in life, especially emotional factors, our liver system often gets disturbed therefore interfered with its “grow and express” activates. When this happens, many liver system related symptoms will occur. Here we will just talk about more about depression. Like all the plants will grow with the spring energy, human energy shall be the same. However, when liver energy is “trapped” or “blocked” for whatever reason, it’s like a tree is being covered by a huge glass jar, many physical and mental symptoms will show. Depression is one the most common ones. TCM will treat depression through healing the liver’s “grow and express” function. Besides using herb or medications, here are some tips we can use in daily live to help ourselves with or at least prevent depression:

1. Look far. Literally, look into space or as far as possible. Sounds simple but as liver system opens at the eyes, adjust the eye can affect the liver system. We feel relaxed and refreshed when we do this, and this is the feeling when our liver energy is being “stretched” as well. 
2. Comb hair. Liver meridian energy ends at the very top of the head and all other Yang meridians also pass the head area. TCM call the head as “the meeting area of hundred Yangs”. Combing the hair often, using wooden comb or just your figures, is one of the oldest health preservation method in Chinese traditions. This simple activity can stimulate the meridians, increase the blood and energy flow, prevent common cold, brighten the eyes, improve sleeping quality and of course help the liver energy to function better. 
3. The figure tips. The very tips of all fingers are called “shi xuan” (ten dispersing points) in TCM. In acupuncture they are used in acute or emergency situations like restore consciousness (especially from heat stroke), epilepsy (excess wind type), coma and high fever. But by stimulating them often can also adjust our physical and mental energy flow, and release the “trapped” energy in our system 

    Back to the nature, in early spring seasons (Spring commences and Rain water) most of the health issues are often caused by wind and cold; In the middle spring (Insects awaken and Spring equinox) recurrence of old chronic is the main issue; Being the ending of the spring seasons, this is the season when people often catch cold that caused by heat and wind. Under warm and damp condition, many factors that can cause illness are being very active. Most diseases in this season are acute and heat-related, such as encephalitis and pneumonia. Everyone remembers SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome, which was related to high dampness and heat condition according to TCM) in the year of 2003, and this was the season when it was at its most severe stage. So during this season we need to be cautious about catching heat and wind related cold. Mint or chrysanthemum tea are the easiest food remedies and if possible, burdock root is one of the best vegetable we can take in this season.

April 4th, 2012. "Clear and Bright", the 5th small Spring season arrives

      In 2012, the season of "Clear and Bright" arrives on April 4th. Celestial longitude: 15 degree. For some of the seasonal information please read this article from last year.
    
      Here are some additional information:
      
     The name "clear and bright" is a description of the energy appearance of the universe in this season, as the "sky is clear" and the "earth is bright".To Human body, “Heaven is Clear” refers to the upper section of the body, or “upper Jiao” which includes Lungs and heart. “Earth is Bright” refers to the middle section of the body, or “middle Jiao” which includes stomach and spleen. So it tells us that during this season we need keep the lungs and heart “clear”, and the stomach and spleen “bright” to fit into the season. Here the word “bright” in Chinese it also indicates “balance”.
      
      In this “Balanced” season, to eat in balance is another key. There are many ways to be “balanced” in eating; here we will just talk about the different tastes. According to TCM theory, most food can be categorized into 5 major tastes: sour, bitter, sweet, spicy (hot), and salty. These 5 tastes are also connected with the 5 elements and 5 major organ systems in human. In general:

Taste:	Hot Spicy (tree)	Salty (fire)	Sweet (earth)	Sour (metal)	Bitter   (water)
Organ system:	Liver-Gall bladder	Heart-Small intestines	Stomach-Spleen	Lungs-Large intestines	Kidneys-Bladder
Nature:	Dispersing	Softening	Slacking	Contracting	Solidifying
Imbalance can cause:	Skin gets thick and wrinkled, peeling lips	Dry skin, skin hair loss	Bone pain, hair loss, loosened tooth	Cramp, dry skin, nail degeneration	Blood stagnation, chest pain, breathing hardness, bad face color

These tastes do not necessarily “add” or “reduce” anything from the system, they work more in an energetic balancing way. It is recommended to have all these 5 tastes in your daily diet, this way you really don’t need to worry about them as they will balance each other’s force and provide positive effects in your system. But depends on the individual’s condition, geographic location and time of the year, the balance of the 5 tastes need to be adjusted in order to fit into the condition better.
    
    As the weather starts to get better, people start to do more outdoor activities. Indeed this is right time to go out and enjoy what the nature is offering. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Avoid wind and cold. The increase of rain add more humidity to the air, and since the temperature is not high enough yet, without proper rest or protection, those who are low in energy level may still catch cold or get joints pain and arthritis symptoms.
2. Be aware of allergy symptoms. This is the high pollen season. Enjoying the blooming is nice, but some flowers do release some harmful material. So be aware of how you react to different area and weather, and avoid them. 
3. Pay attention to the weather changes. Spring weather is like baby’s face, it is unstable and it changes quickly. Before going out, check the weather and bring extra clothes or umbrella just in case. If you do get caught in the rain, take a hot shower and drink hot water as soon as possible.

March 20th, 2012. "Spring equinox ", the 4th small Spring season arrives

      In 2012, the season of “Spring equinox" arrives on March 20th. Celestial longitude: 0 degree. For some of the seasonal information please read this article from last year.
    
      Here are some additional information:

      This small season is the balanced season, but after this season when the balance starts to shift, much old health issue we had in the past may appear again. Why is that? Because as we have been talking about, Yang energy started to move outward when spring started, and now it has reached the very middle point, where half is outside and half is inside. As Yang energy keeps moving outward there may be “traffic jam” during this process. When energy flow is “jammed” at where you have had problems before, they show up again. Like traffic jam during rush hours, this is the “rush season” for our body. So how to direct the “traffic” is the key. Here liver has to come to place again not only because it is the organ for the season, also liver is in charge of “catharsis” function of the body. So to make sure liver functions right is the key to the healthy flow of blood and energy. Here are some tips for a healthy liver:

1. Maintain a balanced emotional state. Here we are talking about moderation. Meaning when you are angry we let the anger out but not causing damage; when you are happy you laugh but don’t laugh like you have lost your mind; when you are sad you can cry but don’t faint. No matter which emotion, it can all be harmful when it passes the limitation. 
2. More fresh and lite food rather than heavy and rich food. Liver in color is green, so green color foods enter liver system. After the winter nourishing, our system is high in nutrients but also high in “waste”. Using fresh green foods to cleanse the liver system before we try to nourish the liver is necessary. 
3. Moderation in working and playing. Too much “movements” will harm the body, but too little will slow down the energy and blood flow. Again, moderation is the key to keep our body and energy in balance. Liver system is also connected with the eyes, and spring season is also a high season for eye related issues. So make sure do not over use your eyes and sleep right. When you take care of your eyes, the livers get a “break” from it, so it is also a way to nourish the liver system. 
4. Take a slow after meal. Liver is also an important organ for digestion. People with liver system issues usually have digestion issue as well. So take a walk after meal, especially dinner, will not only help the liver system with digesting, also help with smooth the mood and emotions.

March 5th, 2012. "Insects awaken", the 3rd small Spring season arrives

      In 2012, the season of "Insects awaken" arrives on March 5th. Celestial longitude: 345 degree. For some of the seasonal information please read this (part 1) and this (part 2) article from last year.
    
      Here are some additional information:



      Being the organs of the Spring, the liver-gall bladder system is always the major topic. During this small season, the liver Yang-energy will rise, but relatively the liver Yin-essence is low. Spring is a windy season (and 2012 is a windy year!), and wind affects liver energy strongly. Therefore, those who have high blood pressure may experience some up and down during this season. Make sure to avoid 4 emotions - anger, tension, worrying and depression, since they can worsen the symptom. On the other hand, since liver system is becoming more active, it may harm the liver yin-essence and causes symptoms like dizziness, weakness, back pain and sore muscle. Drink less alcohol but more warm water or some Goji berry. Also, TCM believes heavy usage of eyes also hurts the liver. So for those who are always on the computer or paper, make sure rest your eyes and sleep right.

      Some other liver system related symptoms include lower rib pain, dry eyes, top part of the head pain, bitterness in the mouth, excessive burping, diarrhea, cramp, and some allergy. However, spring being a high season for liver system issues; it is also the best time period to take care the liver system. Because when all liver issues can be seen, we can better treat them. To adjust the liver system, on one hand we need to nourish it to make it strong, but on the other hand we also need to make sure it’s clean, smooth and free of stagnation. Those who always overuse their body and brain spend lots of blood and energy, which is stored in the liver. These people need to focus on nourishing the liver. Eat more food like dry fruits and greens but avoid too much sweet especially artificial ones. For those who experience “heat in the liver” symptoms like acne, low heat tolerance and sweet easy, or long menstrual period for women should focus on cleaning and cool down the liver “fire”. Avoid smoking, drinking, heavy food, and the best remedy, again, is chrysanthemum tea. Chrysanthemum carries the energy of autumn and it is the perfect energy to balance the excessive liver “fire”.

      Spring is a lively season, but some people feel often sleepy and tired. This is known as the “Spring sleepiness” and in general it’s because the blood which was used for supplying the brain is sent out to the skin level therefore cause blood and oxygen shortage in the brain. This is a normal symptom. But if it lasts too long or becomes too serious, it may be a sign of energy imbalance. Several tips to treat it:

1. Touch: Use cold water to wash the face or flavored toothpaste to brush the teeth in order to stimulate the senses; 
2. Vision: Add more colorful items and decorations, or some plants in your room and office. When sleepy, stand up and move them around; 
3. Taste: Eat a little bit sour or spicy snacks, or drink tea or coffee. But do not go over; 
4. Smell: Smell some herbal or aroma oil can help boost your energy as well. 

      I have mentioned pear during the autumn seasons, but pear is also well-known for its benefit in this particular small season. Since this is a season when Yang (heat) starts to grow faster, many people are not able to adjust their body condition to match the change. Symptoms like dryness, sore and itchy throat are very common. Pear is cool and sweet in nature, it nourishes the Yin energy, moisturize the lungs and cool down the harmful heat. And it can be eaten in many ways include raw, steamed, juiced, baked or boiled. Raw pear can ease the symptoms related to upper respiratory tract and lungs such as dry, itchy, sore throat, and constipation. Pear juice lowers the body heat and nourishes the Yin essence. Add some honey to it will heal chronic dry cough that caused by excessive heat in the lungs. But since it is cool and sweet in nature, there are also restrictions. Tips: 

1. Those who are low tolerance in cold food should eat less; 
2. Pear is also high in tartaric acid so those who has acid reflux should eat less; 
3. Do not eat before going to bed; 
4. People who feel cold often should eat it cooked; 
5. Pear is high in sugar for diabetic patient; 
6. Use less sweet pear as remedy for helping stop coughing and dissolving mucus. 

      Our Yang energy is like a new born baby at this moment and it requires extra delicate care. Physical exercise is recommended but only mild ones like walking, hiking, jogging and Tai Chi. Also, flying kite is known as a very proper activity in the spring season.