The summer solstice—occurring this year on June 20, 2025, at 10:42 p.m.—marks the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere and the official beginning of summer. In both Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this season is closely associated with the fire element, representing energy, transformation, and intensity.
In Ayurveda, the ancient holistic system of medicine originating in India, each season is governed by a unique combination of natural elements, known as Doshas. Summer is ruled by Pitta, a blend of fire and water. When in balance, Pitta supports clear thinking, strong digestion, and purposeful action. However, when out of balance, it can manifest as irritability, jealousy, or an overly competitive mindset.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, summer corresponds to the fire element as well, which is linked to four energy meridian systems: the heart, small intestine, pericardium, and Triple Warmer (San Jiao)—all centered in the upper body. The heart and pericardium are considered yin in nature, while the small intestine and Triple Warmer are yang.
The fire element in TCM is characterized by qualities of heat, expansion, and brightness, aligning it with emotions such as joy, love, and passion. The heart circulates blood and governs consciousness, while the pericardium acts as its protector. The small intestine helps discern what to absorb and what to discard—physically and emotionally. The Triple Warmer, though not a physical organ, plays a key role in regulating energy (Qi) through the body’s major systems: respiration, circulation, and digestion.
As in Ayurveda, fire can become either excessive or deficient in TCM, leading to issues such as inflammation, poor digestion, fatigue, agitation, anxiety, or even inappropriate laughter.
To stay balanced during this intense and energetic season, both systems recommend exercise during the cooler parts of the day, and soothing movement practices. In yoga, this might include yin, restorative, or a slow, juicy flow. TCM also encourages practices that open the chest and upper body—think shoulder openers, backbends, side bends, and gentle twists—to keep energy flowing freely through the fire meridians.
With all this fiery energy in the air, summer is an ideal time to embrace joy, creativity, and connection—but also to consciously carve out moments of rest, reflection, and restoration.
How might you fully embrace the summer season?
What are you feeling called to move toward as we journey through this season of transformation?