As we begin the tilt toward autumn, we haven’t left summer behind just yet. A fifth season, although forgotten in the northern latitudes, is known as “Sān Fú” and translates to late summer. This is the season, that in equatorial zones, is the wet season and is associated with the earth element.
The late summer months can be hot and humid, bringing tropical storms, hurricanes, flash floods, and monsoons. The earth can become so overwhelmed by water that it cannot contain it. And so it rushes, pools, stagnates, and turns to muck.
In Chinese medicine, earth is associated with the spleen and stomach. This is traditional symbolic language rather than a description of modern organ physiology.
Earth Within Us: Emotionally, Spiritually, & Physically
As a reflective metaphor, earth invites us to consider how we process experiences and return to familiar thoughts. The lists below are prompts for reflection, not a psychological assessment.
Balanced Earth
- You are capable of taking care of yourself and express your needs in a healthy manner
- You can give and receive an appropriate amount of emotional support
- You have a sense of belonging and feel understood by those around you
- You feel connected to the place you live and are able to put roots down and create a home
- You have a sense of self identity and value individualism without being overly independent
- You have a healthy relationship with food and don't rely on it for comfort or to deal with emotions.
Imbalanced Earth
- You tend to over empathize with people, and have a hard time seperating your emotional reality from others'
- People often come to you with their problems as you tend to give off a safe and inviting space atmosphere
- You tend to prioritize the needs of others while letting your needs go unmet
- You convey in your needs in a needy or attention seeking way
- Your self worth comes from your place in your community
- You tend to use food as a way to fill a void
- You often worry or ruminate
Traditional texts also use the term dampness. It belongs to that historical framework and should not be used to diagnose digestive symptoms.
For a seasonal ritual, consider a meal made with foods you enjoy and a little time for quiet reflection. Dietary choices should reflect your individual needs rather than an assumed elemental diagnosis.