Heart, Summer and Skin Connection According to TCM
- Alicia Walters
- Sep 27, 2023
- 3 min read
Heart and Summer in TCM
TCM Heart Elements
As the summer season approaches, it's worth noting that Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) associates this time of year with the heart. In TCM, the heart is responsible for nourishing the body's organs with blood and is also linked to emotional expression and spirit. So, as we soak up the summer vibes, it's important to keep in mind the role our hearts play in our overall well-being.

The heart is also associated with emotions according to TCM
Heart and Emotions
The heart is not only responsible for pumping blood throughout the body, but it also plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin. The heart ensures that the skin receives a sufficient supply of blood, which helps nourish the skin cells and maintain a healthy complexion. Additionally, the heart governs the capillaries and blood circulation, which further contributes to healthy skin. Therefore, taking care of your heart can have a positive impact on your skin's health and appearance.
Heart energy is an essential component of our overall well-being. It runs alongside our blood and helps keep our bodies functioning properly. However, when this energy is not flowing as it should, it can have a noticeable impact on our appearance. One common sign of poor heart energy flow is a pale or purple complexion on the face. When it comes to people of colour, one common issue that can arise is a grey, ashy appearance to the skin. This can be a frustrating and concerning problem, as it can make the skin look dull and lifeless. Caucasian skin can exhibit broken capillaries in the face and is more susceptible to puffiness. . .
Heart and Emotions
TCM also says the heart is closely associated with the emotion of joy and inner happiness. In contrast, negative emotions such as sadness are believed to have an unfavourable effect on the heart. This ancient medical system places great emphasis on the connection between emotional well-being and physical health, recognising that the two are intimately intertwined. By cultivating positive emotions while monitoring negative ones, we can support the health of our hearts and promote overall wellness. In the realm of human emotions, it is common to label them as either positive or negative. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that all emotions are valid and should be experienced.
Other Heart Elements in TCM

The heart element is: fire
Its sense organ is the: tongue ( we observe the tip of the tongue to see what is going on with the heart).
Its tissue is: blood vessels
It's colour: is red ( red foods, red crystals )
Taste: bitter( herbs / foods )
The hearts time for rejuvenation of energy is 11 am to 3 pm
Things you can do to support your heart energy, so it can nourish your skin.
Foods ( organic) to eat more of during the summer months or if you are seeing paleness purple or ashy look to the skin
Apples
Apricots
Beets
Bell peppers ( red)
Bitters ( herbal drink)
Red cabbage
Cinnamon
Cranberries
Grapes
Guava
Kidney bean
Strawberries
Papaya
Paprika
Pears
Plums
Pomegranate
Sweet potatoes
Radish
Red onions
Tomatoes
Watermelon
Acu-points to work with to support your heart
Acupoints to work with, in this order
Governing Vessel 26
Yin tang
Heat 7
Governing vessel 14
Triple Heater 17
Small Intestine 17
Small intestine 18
Yin tang
Apply pressure to each point with moderate to deep pressure
for 1 to 2 minutes
If you would like to contact me regarding any of your skin concerns feel free to contact LIyah Skin and Wellness Specialist here
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