Introduction: As the end of summer approaches, the maple leaves signal the arrival of autumn. Unknowingly, the end of summer is upon us. After the end of summer, the season transitions from summer to autumn, with temperatures going from hot to cool. This period marks the crucial juncture between summer and autumn, a key time for health maintenance. If one neglects to take care of their body during this time and the weather starts to become slightly cooler, it may lead to symptoms such as insomnia, restlessness, and weakened immunity. Especially for those with low immunity, various diseases may surface. Therefore, after the end of summer, it is essential for everyone to pay attention to their health and not be careless. Just yesterday, my elder uncles mentioned that the end of summer is near and provided me with valuable advice. After listening to them, I found their suggestions to be very reasonable, which I summarized as “1. Don’t expose yourself. 2. Avoid certain foods. 3. Don’t expose yourself unnecessarily. 4. Ensure certain precautions are taken.” Being cautious and following these suggestions after the end of summer can help individuals, especially middle-aged and elderly, smoothly transition through autumn.
【Don’t Expose Yourself】: Avoid revealing the abdomen when dressing
After the end of summer, there is still residual heat. Some women tend to reveal their navels while dressing, and men might leave their waist exposed when it is hot. However, it is crucial not to expose the abdomen, especially for women, after the end of summer. The area around the navel is the most vulnerable part of the waist. During mornings and evenings following the end of summer, there is a slight chill in the air, which may enter the body through the navel, causing a chilling effect in the abdomen. Prolonged exposure of the navel may lead to an accumulation of internal dampness, posing a risk to health. Hence, to safeguard one’s health, it is essential to cover the navel after the end of summer.
【Avoid Certain Foods】
1. Avoid Cold Melons:
After the end of summer, it is advisable to reduce the consumption of cold-natured melons such as watermelon, bitter gourd, and loofah. These melons have a strong cooling effect, which if consumed for an extended period after the end of summer, may weaken the spleen and stomach, leading to various health issues. Instead, one should opt for seasonal vegetables and fruits like autumn peaches, fragrant pears, figs, pomelos, baby bok choys, and edamame which are more suitable for consumption after the end of summer.
2. Avoid Ginger:
Consuming ginger during the dog days of summer helps expel internal dampness. However, post the end of summer, as autumn begins, the weather tends to become drier. Ginger is heaty in nature and its consumption after the end of summer accelerates dehydration in the body, possibly leading to dryness and ailments such as constipation and mouth ulcers. Therefore, it is best to avoid consuming ginger after the end of summer. Additionally, vegetables with strong pungent flavors like garlic chives, garlic scapes, and garlic should also be consumed in moderation within the first 10 days after the end of summer.
【Avoid Unnecessary Exposure】
1. Avoid Exposing Shoulders in the Morning and Evening:
As autumn sets in, temperatures are particularly cool before 9 a.m. in the morning and after 7 p.m. in the evening. Therefore, post the end of summer, one should refrain from exposing their shoulders in the morning and evening. During this time, moisture levels are high, and exposure may allow wet and cold air to penetrate the body, leading to rheumatism. Individuals predisposed to rheumatism should be especially cautious after the end of summer.
2. Avoid Soaking Feet in Water:
Reduced foot soaking and swimming by the river are observed after the end of summer, as the saying goes, “After autumn begins, people by the river refrain from bathing.” The cooling effect near rivers combined with dropping temperatures can make the body feel significantly colder. Some people may soak their feet in water, which should also be avoided as chilling the feet, rich in acupoints, can result in cold extremities throughout autumn. It is recommended to soak feet alternately every other day after the end of summer to promote proper blood circulation and maintain overall health.
3. Avoid Sleeping Exposed:
After the end of summer, whether morning, noon, or night, it is essential to avoid sleeping with exposed bodies. Due to cooler temperatures post the end of summer, one may not feel the heat from the sun directly, but if exposed while sleeping, damp and cold air can easily enter the body, leading to decreased appetite and lowered immunity. Therefore, it is necessary to dress appropriately while sleeping after the end of summer, covering the abdomen with a small towel to prevent chilling. Particularly, in households with children under the age of 10, it is crucial to regularly check if their beddings are covered properly.
【Precautions Regarding】
1. Avoid Exercising Too Early in the Morning:
Exercising is indeed beneficial for health post the end of summer. However, it is essential not to exercise too early in the morning as dew may still be present, and the sun has not yet risen, increasing the risk of dampness and cold entering the body. It is suggested to either exercise half an hour after sunrise or exercise for half an hour after dinner in the evening post the end of summer.
2. Avoid Insufficient Water Intake:
As autumn sets in after the end of summer, the climate becomes increasingly dry. To combat the dryness, it is important to drink an adequate amount of water. According to the “Chinese Residents’ Dietary Guidelines 2022,” adults should ideally drink 1500-1700mL of water daily. Hence, after the end of summer, daily water intake should not fall below 1500mL.
3. Avoid Excessive Pursuit of Coolness:
After the end of summer, temperatures gradually decrease. It is crucial not to seek too much coolness. For instance, when going out in the morning and evening, if feeling cool, it is advisable to wear a thin coat. Moreover, after exercising and generating heat, refrain from drinking cold beverages. Instead, opt for lukewarm water or eat fruits to aid in temperature regulation. This approach is particularly important for individuals with cardiovascular diseases as excessive pursuit of coolness may cause rapid vasoconstriction, leading to cardiovascular issues.
4. Avoid Overnight Use of Air Conditioning:
As the end of summer approaches, it is recommended to reduce the usage of air conditioning, especially during nights. While coastal areas may still feel warm, most places experience cool nights post the end of summer. Continuous use of air conditioning at night can weaken the immune system. Hence, for better health, consider using an electric fan when feeling hot at night, which can provide a cooling effect without compromising immunity.
As the end of summer approaches, elders are reminded: “Avoid exposing the abdomen, avoid cold melons, avoid eating leftover food, keep shoulders covered in the morning and evening, refrain from soaking feet in water, avoid sleeping exposed, refrain from early morning exercise, ensure sufficient water intake, avoid excessive coolness, and avoid overnight use of air conditioning.” By staying vigilant, everyone can comfortably navigate through the entire autumn season! If this article has been helpful to you, please consider following and liking, as it is greatly appreciated. Moving forward, Mr. Hu will continue to share more cooking tips and health advice. Thank you all for reading.
