Do you know the right time to exercise in summer?
Maximising Energy and Health: Exercising at the Right Time in Summer
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the body's organs are believed to be active during specific two-hour intervals of the 24-hour clock. By aligning our activities with these time segments, we can optimize our overall well-being without the need for external interventions. One such time segment is associated with the Heart energy, which corresponds to the summer season and occurs from 11 am to 1 pm. Research suggests that exercising during this period can greatly benefit heart health and promote overall vitality. In this article, we will explore the significance of exercising at the right time and provide practical tips on incorporating this practice into your daily life.
Understanding the Body's Energy Patterns:
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, each organ system has its own peak energy flow during specific hours of the day. The Heart energy, linked to the summer season, reaches its zenith between 11 am and 1 pm. This period presents an ideal opportunity to engage in physical exercise and enhance overall cardiovascular health.
The Benefits of Midday Exercise:
Research published in the European Journal of Preventative Cardiology suggests that exercising during the late morning hours may be particularly advantageous for individuals aiming to prevent heart disease. By aligning our workout routine with the natural energy flow of our bodies, we can optimize heart function and enhance our cardiovascular system's resilience.
Practical Tips to Incorporate Midday Exercise:
Plan your exercise routine: Dedicate a time slot between 11 am and 1 pm for physical activity. This could involve a variety of exercises such as brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or engaging in a workout routine at the gym.
Prioritise consistency: Make midday exercise a regular habit by scheduling it into your daily routine. Treat it as an essential appointment with yourself and commit to it consistently.
Create a supportive environment: Inform family, friends, or coworkers about your exercise schedule to minimise interruptions during the designated time. Encourage them to join you, making it a fun and social activity.
Choose suitable activities: Select exercises that are enjoyable and align with your fitness level. This will ensure a sustainable routine and increase your chances of sticking to it.
Stay hydrated: As summer can be hot and dehydrating, remember to drink plenty of water before, during, and after your exercise session to maintain proper hydration levels.
Additional Considerations:
While midday exercise offers specific benefits during the summer season, it's essential to listen to your body's cues and adapt your routine accordingly. If you have any pre-existing health conditions or concerns, consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your exercise regimen.
By harmonising our exercise routine with the body's natural energy patterns, we can optimise our cardiovascular health and overall well-being. The midday hours, associated with the Heart energy in Traditional Chinese Medicine, provide an ideal window for physical activity during the summer season. Incorporating midday exercise into your daily life can yield numerous benefits, from improved heart health to increased energy levels. So, start prioritising your well-being and seize the opportunity to exercise at the right time this summer. Your body will thank you for it!
Are you looking for ways to naturally heal your body and mind? Get in touch to discuss how acupuncture can help. Kate runs Clinics in St Albans and Harpenden if you are interested in booking an appointment.
Author
Kate Henley is the founder of ‘The Way of Living’, and has been an acupuncturist for 25 years. She is a full member of the British Acupuncture Council which is the UK’s largest regulatory body for practitioners of traditional acupuncture, and which guarantees high levels of safe practice and professional conduct. She also lectures at the City College of Acupuncture in Old Street, teaching aspiring acupuncturists the importance of the therapeutic relationship. She is passionate about collaborating with women to empower them to find their own way through their lives to support natural transitions.