As the sun begins its gentle descent and the days slowly shorten, our bodies naturally begin to shift in rhythm with the changing season. Late summer, nestled between the blazing heat of summer and the crisp cool of autumn, is governed by the Earth element in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). This transitional time calls for particular attention to our digestive system — the Spleen and Stomach, which are central to our body’s ability to transform food into usable Qi.

In TCM, the concept of “digestive fire” isn’t just a metaphor. It refers to the yang energy and functional strength of the digestive organs, which need to be kept warm, active, and supported to function optimally. As the season changes, the yang begins to retreat. That means our internal fire needs a little extra support to continue burning smoothly.

1. Warm, Cooked Foods Over Cold and Raw

This tip might sound simple, but it’s incredibly powerful. The Spleen prefers warmth. Cold and raw foods can dampen its function, making digestion sluggish and leading to symptoms like bloating, fatigue, and brain fog. Late summer is the perfect time to begin transitioning from salads and smoothies to lightly cooked grains, sautéed vegetables, and warm stews.

Favor foods like congee, roasted sweet potatoes, steamed greens, and warming spices such as ginger, cinnamon, and cardamom. Soups made with bone broth or miso can also be deeply nourishing, helping support digestion while gently grounding your system.

2. Chew Slowly and Eat Without Distraction

In our fast-paced world, mindful eating is often the first thing to slip through the cracks. But slowing down to thoroughly chew your food and digest in a calm environment is one of the best ways to support your digestive fire. When we eat under stress or in a rush, we impair the Stomach and Spleen’s ability to transform and transport nutrients. Over time, this can lead to a depletion of Qi and contribute to dampness or stagnation.

Before meals, take a few deep breaths. Avoid screens. Light a candle or say a quiet word of thanks. These rituals help activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which is crucial for healthy digestion.

3. Adjust Your Routine to Honor the Season

Late summer has its own particular pace — slower, more reflective, and slightly inward-turning. Just as nature prepares for autumn, we too should begin to refine our energy and simplify our routines. Try not to over-schedule or over-commit. The Spleen thrives on regularity and predictability. Simple routines around meals, rest, and activity will support your digestive system and overall balance.

It’s also a great time to reflect on what you’re consuming — not just food, but information, relationships, and emotional experiences. If anything feels too heavy or overwhelming, your digestive system might feel it too. Let late summer be a time to clear what no longer nourishes you.

A Seasonal Recipe to Try

Here’s a simple late summer recipe to support digestive fire:

• Steamed kabocha squash with a drizzle of sesame oil
• Millet porridge simmered with ginger and a pinch of cinnamon
• Light miso soup with cooked greens and shiitake mushrooms

All of these ingredients are gentle, warming, and easy to digest. This kind of nourishment is especially helpful as the yang energy begins to decline and the cooler season approaches.

Final Thoughts

Supporting your digestive fire as summer wanes doesn’t require a complete overhaul — just a mindful shift. With warm, cooked foods, peaceful mealtimes, and a lifestyle that honors seasonal rhythms, you’ll be giving your Spleen and Stomach the attention they need to keep you grounded and well through the transition.

So here’s to a season of warm bowls, long exhales, and a belly that feels nourished in every sense of the word.

Stay grounded, stay golden.

-Jake