Embracing Summer: The Season of the Fire Element

Summer is a season of celebration, a time when the world around us is blossoming with life. The Fire element in Chinese medicine is associated with the season of summer and the emotion of joy. As the sun climbs to its highest point in the sky and lingers longer each day, we find ourselves in the yang within yang time of year, where everything is vibrant and active.

Here in Bellingham, Washington, summer holds power unlike anything I have seen. After enduring eight months of clouds and rain, the arrival of summer is like a collective dive into celebration and expansiveness. The community comes alive, with people eagerly stepping out to explore the breathtaking natural beauty that surrounds them. We gather for parties, barbecues, live music, camping trips, and boating adventures, soaking in the sun’s rays and the joyous atmosphere.

Summer in Bellingham is more than just a change in weather; it’s a transformation in spirit. The long days invite us to play and celebrate, to connect with others and revel in the warmth. This season perfectly embodies the essence of the fire element, which is asscociated with the energetic systems of the heart, circulation/sex, small intestine, and triple burner in Chinese medicine. These organs and energetic systems are all about joy, connection, and warmth.

However, the fire element's energy must be balanced. An imbalance can manifest in two ways: a deficiency can lead to a lack of joy, warmth, and connection, while an excess can result in an overwhelming sense of manic joy. As someone who is prone to feeling this manic energy during the summer, I can attest to the powerful impact of this season. 

My young son is a perfect example of this over-exuberance. His laughter is infectious, and his energy seems boundless as he tries to savor every moment of summer. His joy is so intense that he often finds himself in a puddle of tears due to his overjoy, only to bounce back moments later, eager to rejoin the fun (and sometimes repeating this cycle several times within minutes; it’s quite an emotional rollercoaster for all parties involved). This display of overjoyed enthusiasm is a reminder of the delicate balance we all maintain.

The fire element within us connects us with the beauty of celebrating life and embracing the warmth and connection that summer brings. And yet we still need to remain grounded and avoid flying too close to the sun, like the myth of Daedalus warns. 

As we dive into the joys of summer, let's cherish this powerful time of celebration and action. Let's allow ourselves to fully experience the warmth and connection of this season, while also remembering to stay balanced and grounded. Summer is a time to recharge our spirits, celebrate life, and connect deeply with the world AND people around us. It is our time to embrace this fiery joy, but also remember to take care of ourselves and each other in the process.