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Last Saturday was the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. After a season of growth during spring and a gradual shift in balance, we have now entered the most yang phase of the year. We are now putting all our efforts in continuing that spurt, changing from a sprint to the marathon while also reaping the rewards of the summer season.
Here in the northern hemisphere the summer months of June, July and August are the time of light and energy. The days defy the clock with the sun here in London blazing brighter at 5pm than at noon. Blue skies are not a guarantee but when they appear, there are fewer delights of seeing this simple joy from nature.
We should take advantage of this time to eat light and fresh. Simple meals with good quality ingredients are the stars. Have tomatoes, strawberries, watermelon, watercress and fish. It can be tempting to always cool down with cool treats: some beer, wine, cream with your strawberries, sorbets, insert-your-favourite-treat-here, but don’t overindulge. However do listen to your body - unless it’s crying out for sugar, it’s probably okay to give in to the craving moderately. Most of you already know my opinion of cold food or drinks, over consumption of any food, especially cooling foods, can lead to indigestion and sluggishness but if you want that ice cold glass of lemonade, go for it. Summer is much more forgiving than any other season.
The uttermost yang phase of the year makes this the lightest period. As adults we don't have the luxury of structure like school holidays, timetables and sport practice to tell us when a term begins or when there is a break. That freedom and independence also means we need a fiercer determination and self discipline to start or stop something.
Summer and its days of sunshine can sometimes feel like the only time there is a definite break in our day to day lives - we dress differently, act differently from the feel good factor of being warm and relaxed like a salamander laying on a sunny rock. Enjoy it! Take advantage of it and be in the present. This really is a time to allow yourself a momentary lull before September signals the rush towards the final quarter of the year.
Recharge your batteries even if you're not on holiday by appreciating your surroundings. Take a step back and allow your body and mind some space to breathe. Make this the time to take action to form positive change in your life. Eat good food, have good conversations and be merry.
+ In Chinese Medicine summer is the season of the big yang and is characterised by the fire phase and summer-heat. While the British summer doesn’t immediately bring to mind images of sweltering heat, you can still take advantage of Chinese medicine nutrition and dietetics.
+ Summer is also a good time to try a news fast.
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Eat More Fresh Produce This Summer
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We all know we should eat fresher and greener and what better time than now? It doesn't have to be all about salads though - have grilled aubergines or courgettes, stuffed peppers, squeeze lemon over your meat or just have good bread, some butter and alfalfa seeds.
Summer is the best time to take advantage of the delicious ripe tomatoes. Watch this to see how you can cut them in five seconds.
+Line your vegetable drawer with paper towels to absorb excess moisture and keep lettuce crunchy.
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Summers bring to mind rooftop terraces, picnics at the park and drinks by the river. Swap your pitcher of Pimms with this thirst quenching, non-alcoholic Cranberry Jeltzer.
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If you have been kind enough to refer someone to me – I want to say a big THANK YOU. That is the highest compliment and it’s warmly appreciated every time.
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Spotted in June:
Beauty and the Snob blog - my Age Defense™ facial experience at Neal’s Yard Remedies, King’s Road.
"The results? Amazing! I would compare the results much like the results of a Caci facial where deep lines on the face disappear. I found this result most visible with the two lines leading to my mouth. Also the cheeks appear lifted and much more youthful. There was a slight redness, but I was assured this was only because of the blood flow due to the massage. My legs also felt as if they have been massaged for over an hour as well (even though nothing happened but the needles being put in and out)." Read more.
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Other News: Holiday Notice
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I will be away from Monday, 28 July to Thursday, 7 August. During this time I will be having a little tech detox, so emails may be answered less frequently.
There are limited appointments available on Friday, 8 August and then normal clinics resume from the week of 11 August.
Get in touch with me directly or call The Hale Clinic 020 7631 0156 or Neal’s Yard Remedies on 020 7225 2050 to book your appointment.
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Stylist magazine recently brought to my attention a syndrome called Bitchy Resting Face (BRF) which seems a bit harsh. It “is basically an expression (or rather a non-expression), that makes people think you’re in a bad mood, when actually you’re not. In fact, you’re probably not thinking about a lot, to be honest.” There’s even a spoof public service announcement on YouTube which has gone viral. All I can say is that besides being a great accessory to an outfit, a smile lifts your face and your mood, so make that your default setting.
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Thanks,
Ka Hang Leoungk
Managing Editor, Pointspace
Comment, compliment, feedback: send us your thoughts.
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