Between Seasons (Late Summer) — the Stability of Earth

Period

From around 7 July to 22 August

That’s a period of about 47 days

Less well known to the general public, this late-summer between-season period is the 5th season in the theory of the 5 Elements: it corresponds to Earth and calls on the Spleen and Stomach, the key organs of digestion in Chinese medicine. The principle: support steady digestion and avoid excess Dampness, which easily congests the Spleen (a feeling of heaviness, bloating, fatigue after meals).

Seasonal foods

• Squash and round vegetables (courgette/zucchini, sweet potato, carrot)
• Well-cooked wholegrains (rice, millet) and legumes
• Naturally sweet-tasting foods, in moderation

Recommended cooking methods

Thoroughly cooked, gently simmered dishes that support digestion rather than taxing it. Limit excess raw food and refined sugar, two major sources of Dampness in Chinese medicine.

Seasonal herbal support

A small amount of fresh ginger and cardamom gently stimulate digestion without irritating it. Useful at the start of a meal, or as a tea afterwards.

These are general principles of Chinese dietetics, to be adapted to your own individual constitution. A supplement or herb can interact with an ongoing treatment: always ask your doctor before starting any herbal remedy, particularly during pregnancy, while breastfeeding, or if you are on long-term medication.