The Heart Organ in Chinese Medicine and Its Relation to Summer

By Tanya Boigenzahn, ERYT 500, C-IAYT, RTT, AYS, CHTP, YACEP, & Reiki Master

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Heart is one of the most crucial organs and is closely associated with the Fire element, which is in turn associated with the summer season. Understanding the role of the Heart in TCM and how to care for it during summer can help maintain balance and promote overall health.

The Heart in TCM

1. Functions of the Heart:

Governs Blood and Vessels: The Heart is responsible for pumping blood through the vessels, ensuring that all organs and tissues receive nourishment.
Houses the Shen (Spirit): The Heart is the seat of consciousness, emotions, memory, and thought. A balanced Heart leads to a clear mind and stable emotions.
Controls Sweat: The Heart controls the opening and closing of the sweat pores and is related to perspiration.

Summer and the Fire Element

1. Characteristics of the Fire Element:

Season: Summer
Emotion: Joy
Color: Red
Taste: Bitter
Climate: Heat

2. Symptoms of Heart Imbalance:

Emotional disturbances such as anxiety, restlessness, or excessive excitement
Physical symptoms like palpitations, insomnia, night sweats, and mouth ulcers
Mental symptoms including poor memory and difficulty concentrating

Maintaining Heart Health During Summer

1. Diet:

Cooling Foods: Incorporate cooling and hydrating foods like cucumbers, watermelon, celery, and lettuce to balance the body’s heat.
Bitter Flavors: Include foods with bitter flavors, such as bitter melon, kale, and dandelion greens, which help clear heat and support the Heart.
Light Meals: Opt for light and easily digestible meals to avoid overburdening the digestive system.

2. Lifestyle:

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and cooling herbal teas, such as mint or chrysanthemum tea, to stay hydrated and cool.
Moderate Exercise: Engage in moderate physical activities during cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late evening.
Adequate Rest: Ensure you get enough rest and sleep to allow the body to recover and prevent heat exhaustion.

3. Emotional Well-Being:

Cultivate Joy: Engage in activities that bring joy and relaxation, such as spending time with friends and family, pursuing hobbies, and practicing gratitude.
Mindfulness Practices: Incorporate mindfulness, meditation, and breathing exercises to calm the mind and support emotional balance.

4. Acupressure and Herbal Remedies:

Acupressure Points: Stimulate points like Heart 7 (Shenmen) and Pericardium 6 (Neiguan) to calm the mind, reduce anxiety, and support heart health.
Herbal Remedies: Consult with a TCM practitioner for herbal remedies tailored to your specific needs, which can help balance the Heart and the Fire element.

Acupressure Points for Heart Health

Heart 7 (Shenmen):
- Location: At the wrist crease, on the radial side of the tendon of flexor carpi ulnaris.
- Benefits: Calms the mind, reduces anxiety, and promotes restful sleep.
Pericardium 6 (Neiguan):
- Location: On the inner forearm, about three finger-widths above the wrist crease, between the tendons of palmaris longus and flexor carpi radialis.
- Benefits: Alleviates nausea, calms the mind, and supports heart health.

Note:

In TCM, the concept of organs extends beyond their anatomical structure and encompasses their functional relationships and energetic qualities. When referring to the Heart or other organs, it is essential to understand that this perspective differs from the modern Western biomedical model.

By aligning your lifestyle and practices with the principles of TCM, especially during summer, you can enhance your Heart health and maintain overall balance and well-being.

The Heart Organ in Chinese Medicine and Its Relation to Summer