Lesser Heat
Heat increases; the hottest stretch of the year begins.
In plain terms: Lesser Heat is one of the 24 markers in the traditional Chinese calendar that track how the seasons change through the year — heat increases; the hottest stretch of the year begins..
Energy of This Solar Term
The sanfu (三伏, three peak heat periods) season begins. Heat and humidity combine to make the most physically demanding stretch of the year.
TCM Seasonal Living
Heat injury risk peaks; spleen damp injury common; heart and small intestine continue to need cooling support.
Foods to Emphasize
Bitter melon, lotus seed, summer congees, light fish dishes, and herbal cooling teas (chrysanthemum, kuding).
Practices for This Period
Avoid direct midday sun; sip warm water often (paradoxically, warm water cools the body more sustainably than ice water); reduce alcohol; take afternoon rest.