Embracing the transformative power of summer
Harnessing the fire element
As the sun shines brightly overhead and the temperatures rise, we find ourselves immersed in the season of summer. In Chinese medicine and Qigong, summer is closely associated with the fire element. Fire has been a symbol of transformation, passion, and divinity in many cultures and throughout the ages. Fire is a force that has long captivated human imagination, often depicted as a power of the gods stolen by or for humankind in various mythologies. In the practice of yoga, the heat of fire, referred to as tapas or discipline, is believed to be equally transformative.
Summer, the season of maturity, growth, and ripeness, embodies the essence of fire. It is considered the most 'yang' of all the seasons, characterised by abundance and vitality. Fire is also linked to the emotion of joy. When in balance, this joy manifests as a 'joie de vivre' and a feeling of tranquillity, warm and genuine interactions with others, healthy intimacy, and a natural contentment with life. However, fire, when given to excess, can lead to burnout and overstimulation. It has a tendency to burn non-stop, consuming our energy reserves.
To work with the fire element is to gain insight into how our energy is being utilised. Fire responds favourably to genuine laughter, calmness, and connection. It is crucial to maintain a steady burn by establishing healthy boundaries to prevent burnout. In Chinese five-phase theory and Chinese medicine, a tendency to close down emotionally is seen as a deficiency that can be balanced by rekindling the fire within and opening ourselves up to the offerings of life.
When we think about summer, our thoughts often drift back to the lazy days of our childhood, when we had the luxury of taking it easy and embracing the carefree spirit of the season. We allowed ourselves to relish every moment, whether it was indulging in sun-soaked adventures or immersing ourselves in a captivating book. What lingers most in our memories are the feelings of lightness and playfulness that summer evoked. Although it may be rare for us to grant ourselves such freedom in adulthood, this year, let us make a conscious effort to reclaim some of that youthful energy. This is where the concept of 'tapas' or discipline comes into play, as it takes dedication to quiet the noise and rediscover tranquillity and joie de vivre. So, for what it's worth, here's your permission to kick back, relax, and savour the essence of summertime.
If you're seeking inspiration to tap into the qualities of summer, consider the following journaling prompts:
1. Playfulness and Joie de Vivre:
- What do I need to invite more laughter into my life?
- How can I incorporate more playfulness?
- What activities bring out my sense of play?
- What truly makes me happy?
- How do I define joy, and where do I experience it?
2. Boundaries and Connection:
- Did the pandemic challenge my boundaries and sense of connection?
- Have I regained equilibrium in these areas?
- How can I use boundaries during times of solitude to balance my fire element?
- What is my capacity for building meaningful relationships?
- What helps me open up to others?
3. Tranquillity and Calm:
- How does the excitement and stimulation of urban settings affect me?
- Do I tend to experience burnout due to an excess of external stimuli?
- How can I create a calm environment that supports my well-being?
- In what ways can tranquillity allow me to fully embrace life and respond to it?
4. Rest and Digest:
- Do I trust my gut instincts when making decisions?
-Am I giving myself enough time to rest when overwhelmed with information?
- How can I strike a balance between absorbing useful information and avoiding overwhelm?
- What steps can I take to ensure that my heart and mind are nourished and supported?
As we embrace the transformative power of summer's fire, let us remember the importance of maintaining balance and nurturing our well-being. By understanding and working with the fire element, we can harness its energy to ignite our passions, cultivate joy, and embark on a journey of personal growth. So, this summer, let the fire within you burn brightly, while also ensuring that its flame is steady and sustainable, and allow it to kindle tranquillity within your heart.