Grain in Ear

Grain in Ear represents a busy agricultural period when awn-bearing crops like wheat are harvested and rice is planted. The weather turns significantly hotter and more humid, leading to increased perspiration. In traditional Chinese medicine, this is a unique phase where the Kidney and Bladder organs require extra support. The intense summer heat can dry out our internal fluids, indirectly putting a strain on the Kidney Yin.

The Kidneys are the foundation of all Yin and Yang in the body and govern water metabolism. During Grain in Ear, heavy sweating depletes the body’s fluids, which can exhaust the Kidney Yin and cause symptoms like lower back stiffness, dizziness, dark urine, or physical exhaustion. Because the weather is hot, people often seek cool surfaces, but sleeping on cold floors can allow damp-cold pathogens to seep into the Kidney meridian through the soles of the feet (specifically the Yongquan point).

To safeguard your Kidneys and Bladder, hydration is paramount. Preventing dehydration keeps the bladder flushed and preserves Kidney essence. Drinking aged white tea gently clears excess summer heat while generating fluids to quench thirst. Goji berries are excellent for nourishing the Kidney and Liver Yin, helping to restore fluid balance. Additionally, engaging in gentle stretching helps open up the meridians in the lower back and legs, ensuring that Qi and blood flow smoothly through the Kidney and Bladder pathways.