16 Aug Late Summer and the Intention Police

There’s no hiding the fact that the world feels a little frenzied right now. Whether it’s politics, back-to-school, last-minute summer getaways, kids heading off to college, or your daily routine, it’s easy to get lost in the tailspin of it all.

When coming in for a treatment, you often hear me ask, “What is your intention?” Clear intentions can be the key to moving into another season gracefully and reconnecting with what you need most to feel grounded through any transition.

In Chinese Medicine, this late summer season is associated with the Earth element and the spleen and stomach digestive function in the body. This next month is an important time to focus on self-nourishment not only through the foods you eat but also how you are digesting the information and experiences you are having.

Here are a few tips to help you feel more grounded during these times of change:

• Turn off the news – Limit your intake of stressful information. Feeling helpless suppresses the immune system!
• Eat sitting down – Savor your food. Slowing down when you eat (in a more relaxed state) is ideal for good digestion.
• Move your body – Go on a walk, stretch, take the stairs, walk instead of driving, and get your movement any way you can.
• Work with your hands – Cook, garden, crafting, or any activity using your hands has a direct effect on calming and clearing your mind.

We are about halfway through this big energy year of the Wood Dragon. It can feel fast and furious with a forward momentum that can be exciting and may feel like it’s running you down. Grab a pause when you can and set a few clear intentions to help you ride the waves of what’s to come.

I am reminded of an 80’s song by The Police:
“When the world is running down, you make the best of what’s still around.”

In good health ❤️
Jamie