Understanding the Energy of Summer
Summer is associated with the Fire element, which governs the Heart and Small Intestine meridians. This season represents outward movement, joy, and connection. It is a time of growth and activity, but also a time when the body can become easily overheated, overstimulated, or burned out if not properly supported.
In contrast, spring is linked with the Wood element and the Liver and Gallbladder meridians. The energy of spring is about renewal, vision, and forward movement. As we move into summer, the goal is to carry that growth into a space of balance, vitality, and emotional ease.
Common Symptoms During the Spring to Summer Shift
The seasonal transition can be subtle, but for some people it brings noticeable changes in the body and mind. Some common patterns I see in clinic this time of year include:
Feeling restless or agitated
Difficulty sleeping or staying asleep
Increased anxiety or emotional sensitivity
Headaches, tension, or heat symptoms in the body
Digestive upset, especially with cold or raw foods
These signs are your body’s way of signaling that it may need some support adapting to seasonal changes.
How Acupuncture Helps
Acupuncture works by regulating the flow of qi (vital energy) through the body’s meridians. During seasonal transitions, treatments focus on clearing any stagnation from the previous season while supporting the organs and systems most active in the current one.
For the spring to summer shift, acupuncture treatments may help:
Calm the mind and support emotional balance
Regulate sleep and improve restfulness
Reduce internal heat or inflammation
Support digestion and nutrient absorption
Maintain energy levels and prevent seasonal burnout
Even a few sessions can help the body adapt more smoothly and leave you feeling more connected, grounded, and aligned.
Seasonal Tips for At-Home Support
You can support your body between treatments by tuning in to the rhythm of the season. A few simple shifts can make a big difference:
Wake up earlier and embrace natural light
Eat light, cooked meals with seasonal vegetables
Stay hydrated with room-temperature or warm fluids
Avoid overstimulation and take time to rest
Spend time outside, especially in the morning or early evening
Listening to your body and honoring what it needs during this time of growth and outward expansion is a form of care that pays off in the long run.
Final Reflection
Seasonal transitions are an opportunity to realign with yourself and your environment. Acupuncture offers gentle, personalized support to help you move from spring into summer with ease, balance, and vitality. If you've been feeling off or simply want to stay in tune with your health, this is a great time to check in.
Written by: Alex Simmonds R.Ac TCM