Photography by Sandra Marie
Late Summer is considered to be a fifth season in the Five Element Theory of Chinese Medicine.
It begins in late August (3rd week) and ends at the Autumn Equinox (Sept. 23rd).
This short, still season is a transition point between the hot, outgoing days of Summer and the focus and inner reflection of Fall.
Late Summer is associated with the Earth element, which corresponds to digestion and nourishment. It is an important time for centering and grounding. Instead of resisting change, aim to cultivate adaptability, relaxation, and faith.
A Few Indian Summer Health Tips:
~ Drink chamomile tea, which soothes the stomach and helps calm the nervous system.
~ Relax, sit, and savor a meal. Eat in a serene environment in an unhurried manner.
Light a candle to accompany your meal.
~ As the weather cools, you may want to incorporate some warming foods that support the Earth element. Foods like ginger, squash, pumpkin, fennel, and mustard greens help your digestive system.
- The Earth element corresponds to community, so make sure to savor the last days of summer with family and friends.
A Few of My Favorite Essential Oils for Indian Summer:
- Cardamom ~ Warming and comforting. Restores an "appetite for life." Cardamom has been utilized to support digestion for thousands of years.
- Cedarwood ~ Fortifying and strengthening. Steadies the mind during times of change.
- Coriander ~ A joyful oil that promotes creativity and a sense of peace. Supports healthy digestion.
- Frankincense ~ A deeply spiritual oil that is beneficial for meditation, contemplation, and prayer. Nourishes the skin and has pain relieving properties.
- Mandarin ~ Refreshing, cleansing, and uplifting. Eases tension and supports a healthy nervous system.
- Mandarin Petitgrain ~ Made from the leaves and twigs of the Mandarin tree. Strongly relaxing and soothes muscle cramps.
- Neroli ~ Also known as Orange Blossom. Exquisite scent and emotionally nourishing.
- Patchouli - Grounding and soothing; brings balance to difficult moods.
- Sandalwood ~ A mesmerizing, sweet-woody oil. Eases obsessive worry and promotes peace and insight.
- Ylang Ylang ~ Exotic, sweet aroma that releases inhibitions and encourages feelings of euphoria.
If you're interested in more seasonal wisdom for Indian Summer, take a peek at my newest offering; Indian Summer Aromatherapy.
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