August brings a special transition in the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) calendar—a time known as Late Summer. Unlike the four seasons we’re used to, TCM recognizes this as a unique fifth season, governed by the Earth element.
This is the season for grounding, digestion, and stability. In TCM, the Spleen and Stomach are considered the body’s primary organs of transformation and transportation—extracting nourishment from food and life itself. When these organs are strong and balanced, our bodies feel centered, our energy is steady, and our minds are clear
Signs Your Earth Element Is in Balance
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You feel grounded and stable
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Digestion is smooth and comfortable
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Energy is steady throughout the day
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Your mind feels clear and focused
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You experience emotional ease
When the Earth Element Is Out of Balance
Sometimes, Late Summer can bring signs of imbalance, including:
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Bloating, sluggish digestion, or food sensitivities
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Fatigue or heaviness in the body
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Overthinking, worry, or “mental fog”
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Sugar cravings or feeling ungrounded
TCM Tips to Support Your Earth Element This Season
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Choose warm, cooked meals—especially root vegetables, squashes, and whole grains.
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Focus on naturally sweet, neutral foods like carrots, sweet potatoes, millet, and chickpeas.
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Eat mindfully, chew thoroughly, and avoid eating on the go.
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Include gentle movement like walking, stretching, or tai chi after meals.
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Schedule an acupuncture tune-up to nourish digestion, calm the mind, and keep your system strong.
Seasonal Recipe: Cooling Cucumber & Miso Salad
A simple, digestion-friendly dish to harmonize your system during Late Summer.
Ingredients:
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2 large cucumbers, thinly sliced
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1 tbsp white miso paste
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1 tbsp rice vinegar
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1 tsp sesame oil
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1 tsp honey or maple syrup
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1 tsp grated fresh ginger
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Sesame seeds & herbs (optional)
Instructions:
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Whisk miso, vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and ginger in a bowl.
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Toss in the cucumbers until coated.
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Garnish with sesame seeds or herbs.
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Let marinate for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Why This Recipe Supports the Earth Element:
In TCM, the Earth element thrives on balanced flavors and gentle nourishment. Hydrating cucumber helps cool residual summer heat, while miso, a fermented food, supports healthy gut bacteria and smooth digestion. Honey adds mild sweetness to strengthen the Spleen, and ginger offers gentle warmth to prevent overcooling. Together, these ingredients help you feel centered, aid digestion, and keep your system strong as we shift toward autumn.
Wishing you a nourishing and balanced Late Summer,
Lisa
About the Author
Hi, I’m Lisa Jensen, a Licensed Acupuncturist in Winchester, MA with a passion for helping people find balance and healing through traditional Chinese medicine. With over 20 years of experience, I specialize in pain management and women’s health—fertility, pregnancy, and peri/menopause care, and believe in the power of natural healing to enhance overall well-being. When I’m not in the clinic, you can find me with my husband and 2 kids, enjoying hikes with my dog Ernie, or practicing meditation and yoga. I created this blog to share tips, insights, and the latest in holistic health practices to support your wellness journey.
Feel free to reach out—I’m always happy to connect and answer any questions you may have!