As we move through the heat of high summer and edge gently towards autumn, Traditional Chinese Medicine recognises a unique season in between: Late Summer. This is a time of transition, reflection, and nourishment – a chance to ground ourselves before the more introspective months of autumn arrive.
In TCM, Late Summer is governed by the Earth element, and it corresponds to the Spleen and Stomach organs. It’s a time to focus on digestion – both physical and emotional – and to centre ourselves after the outward energy of spring and summer.
The Earth Element and Our Centre
The Earth element represents stability, nurturing, and transformation. Just as the earth yields the late summer harvest, this season offers a chance to gather what we’ve sown – in our habits, our relationships, and our inner life.
The Spleen and Stomach are the key organs in this phase, and they play a central role in digestion, absorption, and emotional processing. When our Earth element is in balance, we feel grounded, clear-headed, supported, and nourished. When it’s out of balance, we may feel tired, anxious, or prone to overthinking.
Eating with the Season
Late Summer is the perfect time to support digestion with warm, mildly sweet, and earthy foods. Think of the gentle flavours of carrot, squash, sweet potato, millet, rice, and chickpeas. These foods nourish the Spleen and help build Qi(vital energy).
Recommended foods:
Cooked vegetables like parsnip, pumpkin, fennel, leeks
Grains: millet, oats, short-grain rice, barley
Warming spices: ginger, cinnamon, turmeric
Legumes: chickpeas, lentils
Seasonal fruits in moderation: ripe peaches, figs, cooked apples
Avoid:
Cold, raw foods in excess (smoothies, salads)
Sugary treats and dairy, which can create internal “dampness”
Overeating or irregular meal times
Try a simple congee or barley stew to comfort the gut and calm the mind – nourishing foods for body and spirit.
Mental Health & Overthinking
In TCM, the Spleen is also connected with our ability to think clearly and focus. When the Earth element is disturbed, it can manifest as worry, rumination, and brain fog.
To counter this:
Establish a stable daily rhythm (wake, eat, rest at consistent times)
Journal or mind-map to organise your thoughts
Spend time in nature, especially walking barefoot or gardening
Practice Qi Gong or Tai Chi to harmonise your inner rhythms
Simple Self-Care for the Season
Late Summer asks us to slow down and find comfort in the familiar. Here are a few gentle practices:
Acupressure:
ST36 (Zusanli) – below the kneecap, strengthens digestion and immunity
SP6 (Sanyinjiao) – inner leg above the ankle, calms the mind and supports Spleen function
Drink warming herbal teas: ginger, cinnamon, fennel or chamomile
Keep your abdomen warm, especially in the evenings
Share meals with loved ones – this season is about community and connection
A Time of Gathering and Letting Go
Late Summer is not just about harvest – it’s about sorting, digesting, and preparing for change. It invites us to pause, breathe, and gently ask: What do I need to nourish? What do I no longer need to carry?
As you enjoy the golden light of Late Summer, may you find the centre within yourself – supported, grounded, and well-nourished.
Iwood Health, Wrington 