A Naturopath’s guide to Summer

A NATUROPATH’S GUIDE TO SUMMER:

- Eating seasonally is better for us and better for the environment, think about fruit such as watermelon, cantaloupe, mango, passionfruit, fig, grapes and pineapple. Veg includes asparagus, lettuce, cucumber, tomato, zucchini and radish

- Increased temp = increased sweating = increased water intake! Make sure you’re having at least 2L, and more on days when you know you need it

- Take advantage of the nicer weather (waiting patiently in Melbourne) and enjoy ocean swims, bush walks and garden time

- Give yourself permission to relax and unwind, take the break that you deserve

- Allow yourself flexibility in your food, I always say to my clients - enjoy your food as you eat it, even if it is not necessarily your ‘ideal’, this season is fun and you’re allowed to enjoy it

- If you don’t want alcohol, don’t forget about Mocktails, they’re just as good

- To cool down, herbs such as spearmint and lemon balm make a beautiful iced tea

- Spend time making memories with your loved ones

- Here’s hoping those of us planting a summer garden, get a good crop of tomatoes and cucumbers to enjoy and share

- Get outside to see the sunrise and sunset, not just for the aesthetics, but also for the circadian rhythm benefits and to support melatonin production and get a better nights sleep

It’s been a long time in waiting, but we’ve made it to Summer - now we just have to hope the Melbourne catches up!

Energetically, fire is what makes up Summer and is representative a season of power, passion, growth and expansion. It is peak season of transformation. The fire element rules the energy of the heart, small intestine, pericardium and adrenals. Summer (and fire element) is associated with social connection and the sound of laughter, a season of abundance for both. I’m hoping that this abundance also translates into lots of tomatoes and cucumbers to harvest from my garden, and sunflowers too!

Embrace the Season and what it brings, have a beautiful Summer!