From an Acupuncturist’s Point of View: What to Do on the Summer Solstice
The summer solstice marks the peak of yang energy—expansive, outward, radiant. In Chinese Medicine, it’s a time when fire rules, the Heart is most active, and we’re invited to celebrate connection, joy, and presence.
Here’s how to honor this turning point with intention:
Wake with the sun – Align your qi with nature by greeting the light early and letting the sun kiss your face for 10 minutes in the morning. This helps regulate your circadian rhythm, balance hormones, activates your wei qi (basically the immune system in Chinese medicine), boosts vitamin D, and nourishes the heart/shen (in Chinese medicine which can help reduce anxiety and increase joy).
Eat with the season – Think cooling foods: watermelon, cucumber, mint, leafy greens, mung beans and hibiscus tea to balance the summer heat. Eating with the season doesn’t just keep you healthy, it honors the intelligence of the nature within you.
Tend to your Heart – Journaling, laughing with friends, and practices that spark joy nourish your shen (spirit) and keep your heart fire in balance. Your heart isn’t just a physical organ; it’s a spiritual compass. Let it guide you towards what feels warm, true and alive for you right now.
Sweat with purpose – Gentle movement, breathwork, or even a sunlit walk helps release excess heat and stagnation. Try to avoid “over sweating” in the summer to not deplete your fluids. If you really need that hot yoga class, try to replenish with mineral and electrolytes in your water afterwards.
Reflect and refine – We’re halfway through the year, which is a perfect time to check in. What is blossoming in your life right now? What no longer aligns with the season you’re stepping into?
Summer is not just about doing more—it’s about living with clarity, warmth, and alignment. I’ll be offering seasonal acupuncture sessions to help you feel grounded, vibrant, and in tune with this sacred shift.
Start working with Dr. Savannah here