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People enjoying the the park during the summer.

Stay Healthy and Balanced this Summer

July 25, 2014

Acupuncturists all over NYC are familiar with the pesky symptoms that come with the humidity, heavy rains and scorching hot days of summer in New York. With a constant temperature flux due to weather changes and air conditioning in buildings and subways cars, our bodies have to work extra hard to stay regulated. When sweat from being on the hot streets meets a blast of icy air from an AC vent all kinds of issues can arise from the sniffles to tight neck and back muscles. Add busy schedules and lots of socializing on top of compromised immune systems and the summer is likely to get the best of you.

Getting regular acupuncture is an excellent way to keep your immune system strong and ward off any seasonal issues that may arise. In addition, here are a few tips to keep in mind as you’re moving around the city this summer:

1. Cover up! The trains and stores have the air conditioning on full blast and as refreshing as this seems it can be way too cold on our bodies. If you can feel the direct flow of the AC it’s a good idea to cover your neck and shoulders or move out of the line of air completely. When we sweat in the summer, our pores open to help keep us cool. The combination of open pores, damp skin and cold air can lower our bodies immunity leading to fatigue, congestion, headaches, and even tight muscles. Covering the most vulnerable areas with a thin layer will keep you protected and cool.

2. Stay hydrated! The humidity in New York is tough because we feel hot and sticky regardless of the temperature. It’s important to remember that your body is losing fluids throughout the day and needs to be regularly replenished. Acupuncturists LOVE encouraging patients to drink room temperature rather than icy cold water, even on the hottest days. It’s good for digestion, good for hydration and good for keeping you cool. Add lemon for electrolytes or cucumber for cooling properties and taste.

3. Honor your time: By now most people’s schedules are booked through Labor Day. In Chinese medicine the summer corresponds to fire which is the most active and energetic of the five elements. It’s natural and healthy to want to be out and about socializing and making plans for the weekends, but balance is key. Our high levels of energy, increased movement and tendency to party all correspond to yang energy which is prone to burning up quickly, leaving us with a feeling of fatigue and low mood. Schedule in restorative activities like movie nights and dinner at home to keep your energy in balance.

4. Unplug for a few… Our Yogi expert, Suki reminded us how important it is to unplug in her spring blog, and at the peak of summer this can’t be stressed enough. To explain the concept of Yang energy to patients I usually describe a party in Times Square at noon, on the hottest day of the year. It’s hot, frenetic, noisy and buzzing with movement. The opposite, Yin energy is like a quiet, dark room in the middle of winter. New Yorkers are bombarded with an exceptional amount of Yang energy all year round but summer time can be especially chaotic. The bright light and constantly moving screen make electronics Yang in nature and can leave us feeling over stimulated, scatter brained, and prone to headaches and anxiety. To help balance out the very Yang energy of the season try adding some Yin time into your day by committing to short phone-free spurts. The subway ride to work or the first and last hours of your day are great times to start.

Stay cool and healthy NYC!

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