08/16/2026
Tips for Balancing the Earth Element in Late Summer
The Ancient Chinese sages noticed that summer starts out with strong fire energy, and as the season progresses, we move into stronger earth element energy. Late summer has its own category because it has a distinct energy that serves as a transition into Fall. It is best to do distinct energy balancing practices to help you make the most of this late summer season.
An article published in Mother Earth Living called "Nurturing Summer Health" shares some tips and insights on how you can find balance in late summer:
"As summer starts winding down into the dog days of August, the energy shifts from fire to earth. In TCM, this period is its own distinct season, governed by the earth element. The energy of this season is about bounty — nurturing, nourishment, centering, and trusting. In summer, the elements come together to provide the freshest, brightest food; minerals, soil, seeds, water, and heat from the sun have all combined to create food. This is the time to focus on nourishing and connecting with yourself and others.
The earth element presides over the spleen and stomach. When the earth element falls out of balance, digestive problems arise. This shows itself as reflux, bloating, lack or surge in appetite, sluggish digestion, and digestive discomfort. Many people experience digestive issues when they're worried or stressed; this is because worry is the negative emotion associated with the spleen. With the digestive system at the center of our bodies, it has the power to throw all other bodily systems out of balance when unwell.
Finding Balance in Physical Activity
The earth element also recharges with gentle, easy movements. The spleen governs the muscle system according to TCM. Give your muscles some extra love and attention in to order connect heart and head, body and mind, and move your way into a deeper sense of rootedness.
1. Walk. A leisurely walk gets your system flowing with this simple goal of getting around the block. Walking also helps you de-stress and forget about your daily worries.
2. Stretch. Lay down on the ground and gently move your body; it'll tell you where it needs to stretch. Bend forward, side to side, and flex and point your feet and hands. Get on your hands and knees and slowly move your spine. Take deep breaths and feel your body. Connect with the structure of your body systems by mapping your bones in your mind, sensing the throb of your pulse and circulation, or expanding the rhythm of your breathing.
3. Garden. Gardening physically connects you to the earth. Get your hands in dirt — smell it, touch it, and appreciate its unique properties for helping everything grow into fruition.
4. Lay down. Simply lay down and let the earth support you. Put a blanket down outside, or lay down on your floor inside. Imagine the rich soil of the earth supporting your body.
Loving kindness toward oneself is healthcare at the deepest level. By connecting with the energy of the season, we can align our self-care practices with nature and access a deeper healing from our efforts. Remember, effective self-care isn't a chore. By taking the extra steps to care for yourself, you set the tone for care in your life and relationships."
As late summer invites us to slow down, nourish ourselves, and reconnect with what keeps us grounded, it's a wonderful time to bring a little more intention to our daily self-care.
