Today marks the start of the traditional "dog days" – summer’s peak heat has officially arrived!

Unlike the typical "extended 40-day" period, this year’s hot season runs from July 20 to August 18, lasting just 30 days – a notably shorter span rare in the past decade.

Despite its brevity, the intense heat persists. Coupled with frequent rainfall and dampness, this season may leave the body more vulnerable to external influences.

Key dates:

Initial Heat: July 20–29

Mid-Heat: July 30–August 8

Final Heat: August 9–18

Traditional seasonal practices emphasize harmonizing with nature during intense weather. This period offers an opportunity to support overall well-being.

reishi, valued in traditional practices, is often incorporated into seasonal routines during these warmer days.

Supporting Vitality During Warm Days

The "dog days" represent nature’s peak warmth, a time when seasonal traditions focus on balance.

Warmer weather naturally shifts the body’s rhythms, which some traditions associate with restlessness or discomfort. Humidity may also contribute to feelings of heaviness.

Seasonal approaches often highlight gentle nourishment and maintaining balance. Dietary suggestions include:

Hydrating produce: Bitter melon, cucumber, tomato, and winter melon are rich in water and antioxidants. Aim for 700g+ of combined fruits/vegetables daily.

Morning warmth: Those sensitive to chill may enjoy ginger-date tea in the morning, aligning with the saying "Winter radish, summer ginger."

Grains for balance: Incorporate ingredients like white hyacinth bean, barley, or yam into meals.

Enjoying reishi in Summer

reishi, sometimes called the "mushroom of well-being," has been noted in historical texts like Shennong’s Herbal Classics and the Compendium of Materia Medica.

Compared to ingredients like donkey-hide gelatin or ginseng, reishi’s neutral nature makes it suitable for warmer months. It offers a distinct earthy flavor and is traditionally used to support relaxation.

How to enjoy it?

reishi tea: Simmer 4–5 slices in water (using a "herbal tea" setting). Enjoy its aromatic, earthy notes alone or with osmanthus, honeysuckle, hawthorn, or goji berries.

In meals: Try reishi with white fungus in a gentle broth, or combine with wood ear mushrooms and lean pork in soups. These preparations reflect traditional approaches to seasonal nourishment.

Seasonal Suggestions

A few common habits to reconsider during warm days:

Overindulging in cold treats: May cause digestive discomfort for some.

Excessively low AC temperatures: Sharp indoor/outdoor temperature shifts can be jarring.

Cold showers when overheated: Sudden temperature changes after sweating or exercise may cause dizziness.

Sleeping without covers: Cool nighttime drafts (especially with AC) may cause stiffness.

Maintain regular routines and calmness during this period. Many pair this with seasonal beverages like reishi tea or reishi spore preparations as part of their warm-weather rhythm.

In essence, seasonal harmony practices offer a time-honored way to align with nature’s cycles. Thoughtful inclusion of ingredients like reishi can complement this mindful approach throughout summer.