Begins June 21st
Xia Zhi, or the Summer Solstice, marks the longest day and shortest night of the year. This powerful Qi Node represents the culmination of Yang energy—light, activity, and outward expression. In the cycle of nature, this is the apex of solar force. While it is a time of celebration and vitality, it is also the beginning of a turning point. After Xia Zhi, the days begin to slowly shorten, and Yin gradually begins its return.
According to Traditional East Asian Medicine, Xia Zhi is closely linked with the Fire element and the Heart meridian. The emotional qualities of the Heart—joy, connection, and clarity—are emphasized during this time, making it ideal for shared laughter, creative expression, and spiritual connection. However, an excess of Fire can result in burnout, anxiety, and scattered thoughts.
Living in Harmony with Xia Zhi: • Focus on Lightness: Lighten your schedule where possible. Practice moving meditation, early morning walks, or spending quiet time in nature. • Stay Cool Internally: Enjoy cooling foods like lotus root, watermelon, and mint. Avoid heavy meals or eating late at night, which burdens digestion during this hot season. • Sleep Wisely: With increased daylight, many people push bedtime later. But restorative sleep is crucial to process the day’s energy. Create calming nighttime routines to offset long, busy days. • Connect Spiritually: This is an ideal time to deepen practices that connect you to purpose—whether through journaling, meditation, or heartfelt conversations.
Energetic Guidance: This peak of Yang invites us to fully enjoy life’s brightness. It is a season for gathering, music, community, and outward expression. But like all high points, it calls for awareness. Just as the sun begins its slow descent after this solstice, we too must remember to temper brilliance with replenishment.
Watch for signs of Heart imbalance: vivid dreams, forgetfulness, chest tightness, or heat in the upper body. These may indicate it’s time to nourish Yin and cool the system.Reflection Questions for Xia Zhi: • Where am I being called to show up more fully? • What areas of my life are asking for more light or clarity? • Am I making space to replenish, not just radiate?
Ingredients (Serves 2–3):
- 1/3 cup Job’s Tears (coix seeds), soaked overnight
- 1/3 cup white rice
- 4–5 dried red dates, pitted and sliced
- 1 tbsp goji berries, rinsed
- 3 slices fresh ginger
- 5 cups water
Instructions:
Rinse the rice and soaked Job’s Tears. Add them to a pot with the red dates, ginger, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally until the congee thickens. Add the goji berries in the last 10–15 minutes of cooking. Serve warm.
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