Back-to-School with Balance: Acupuncture and the Earth Element of Late Summer

The return to school is a major seasonal and energetic shift—not just for students, but also for parents, teachers, and anyone adjusting back to structure and routine. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this transition from the high energy of summer into the grounding energy of late summer is especially significant.

Late summer is ruled by the Earth element, a time to slow down, nourish ourselves, and support digestion—both physically and emotionally. Acupuncture during this time can help you stay grounded, calm, and energized as you move into a new season.

From Fire to Earth: What the Seasonal Shift Means in TCM

Summer is governed by the Fire element—think outward expression, connection, activity, and joy. It’s a time of movement and expansion. But as August rolls in and the light starts to soften, we enter late summer, a unique fifth season in Chinese medicine.

Late summer is associated with the Earth element, which governs the Spleen and Stomach organs. This is the time to return to center, nourish the body, and prepare for the inward focus of fall. It's when we digest not only food, but experiences, responsibilities, and emotions.

Why Late Summer Can Feel Emotionally and Physically Unsettling

When the Earth element is imbalanced—especially during back-to-school season—we may experience:

• Overthinking or worry

• Digestive issues like bloating or bowel irregularity

• Fatigue, especially heavy limbs or sluggishness

• Difficulty focusing or feeling scattered

• Sleep disruptions

• Cravings for sugar and comfort foods

This is your body's way of asking for grounding and nourishment—and acupuncture can provide that support. To read more about the emotions associated with late summer, check out my blog post.

How Acupuncture Supports the Earth Element During Back-to-School

Acupuncture offers gentle, effective support for the Earth element by:

1. Regulating the Nervous System

Acupuncture calms the body’s stress response, reducing anxiety, helping you sleep more deeply, and allowing you to better cope with stressors.

2. Supporting Digestion

By strengthening the Spleen and Stomach, acupuncture improves nutrient absorption, reduces bloating, and boosts energy.

3. Enhancing Mental Clarity

TCM teaches that the Spleen rules thought. When supported, it helps clear brain fog and improve concentration—perfect for students, teachers, and parents alike.

4. Boosting Immunity

A strong Earth element leads to better immune defenses heading into fall, especially important for school environments.

5. Promoting Emotional Balance

Whether you're prone to worry, emotional overwhelm, or simply feeling "off," acupuncture helps re-center your emotional landscape.

Late Summer Tips for Earth Element Health

Support your acupuncture treatments with these lifestyle and dietary practices:

• Eat warm, simple meals like soups, stews, and roasted vegetables

• Favor sweet, earthy foods like squash, carrots, rice, and dates

• Avoid too much raw, cold, greasy, or sugary food

• Stick to regular meal and sleep times

• Limit screen time and overstimulation

• Practice gentle movement (Qi Gong, walking, yoga)

• To read more Late Summer wellness tips, check out my blog post.

Back-to-School Care for Kids and Adults Alike

For adults navigating the mental load of work, school, parenting, and life transitions—this is an ideal time to nourish yourself. However, acupuncture isn’t just for adults. Pediatric acupuncture (or non-needle techniques like Shonishin or acupressure) can help kids with:

• School anxiety or separation stress

• Sleep issues

• Digestive upsets

• Difficulty focusing or behavioral shifts

There is a fantastic pediatric acupuncturist who shares a building with me. His name is Jimmy Danella with Maitri Family Wellness. It’s important for both parent and child to receive treatment for the best outcomes.

When to Start Acupuncture for Back-to-School Season

The best time to start acupuncture is before the stress builds up—ideally in the last weeks of summer and early into the school year. Consistent treatment helps your system stay centered and resilient.

Ready to Feel Grounded and Energized This Season?

Acupuncture can help you and your family feel nourished, calm, and ready for the changes ahead. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, student, or just feeling the shift in seasons, now is the perfect time to care for your Earth element.

Schedule your acupuncture session here or reach out with any questions— I’m here to support your transition with gentle, effective care.