I had shared highlights of this article in a Zoom session on 1 May 2025, along with a preview of upcoming health programs. The recorded video as listed below.
中文版: – https://youtu.be/UioZzJGPCKU
English Session: – https://youtu.be/9wZhTHF5kLQ
Dear Participants and Friends,
I trust this message finds you well as we transition through another seasonal phase. Since my last update when Singapore experienced breezy and refreshing weather in February and March, you’ve probably noticed the gradual return of warmer and more humid days in early April.
As many of you know, I prepare and share these periodic articles because I deeply believe that prevention is better than cure—a core value in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). TCM emphasizes understanding one’s body constitution, being attuned to seasonal transitions, and recognizing the influence of local climate. Through this awareness, we can make timely lifestyle and dietary adjustments to stay balanced and healthy throughout the year.
We are currently in the inter-monsoon period, which typically spans April to May. This period brings a variety of weather patterns, including afternoon and evening thundery showers, sometimes accompanied by gusty winds. It is also the time when Sumatra squalls—lines of thunderstorms originating from Sumatra—sweep across the region, often bringing widespread rainfall and brief but strong winds, particularly in the pre-dawn hours. These fluctuations in weather have direct implications on our health, especially for those sensitive to environmental changes.
Although the recent weak La Niña has now subsided, the climate has entered an ENSO-neutral phase—neither La Niña nor El Niño—according to the latest global climate reports. As such, we expect the typical tropical heat and humidity to persist through late July, followed by intermittent drier spells.
On May 5, 2025, the Northern Hemisphere will welcome the seventh solar term of the year, LiXia (立夏)—the official commencement of summer. Singapore, just one degree north of the Equator, will enter a uniquely tropical summer, marked by sweltering heat, high humidity, and the usual interspersed thundery showers. Though some claim Singapore lacks seasons, our climatic rhythms do show clear trends that affect health patterns and the manifestation of symptoms, particularly in TCM.
Please take precautions by staying well-hydrated, carrying water when you head outdoors, and adopting the proactive habit of “drinking before feeling thirsty” to reduce the risk of heatstroke.
TCM Seasonal Health Observations
Damp-Heat Body Constitution
Those with Damp-Heat tendencies—often experiencing skin rashes, eczema, and urinary tract infections—should take special care in the coming weeks. Heat combined with high humidity can trigger flare-ups and further discomfort. Additionally, elevated temperatures may cause irritability, fatigue, headaches, and digestive disturbances to surface more frequently.
Digestive System Concerns
Damp-heat is a prominent pathogenic factor in summer. The heat may drive cravings for iced drinks and “cold” foods, but these habits can impair digestion and lead to symptoms like poor appetite, diarrhea, and acid reflux. From a TCM diet perspective, foods that clear heat and promote urination—such as porridge, soups, bitter gourd, watermelon, green beans, plum, tomatoes, cucumber, and strawberries—can help regulate internal balance.
Morning warm ginger water is a simple but effective practice to strengthen the Spleen system, boost appetite, prevent internal cold, and support better sleep quality.
Headaches
Frequent fluctuations in temperature and barometric pressure, combined with stress or inadequate rest, can trigger or worsen headaches. Instead of relying heavily on medication, try focusing on hydration, emotional balance, adequate rest, and limiting cold foods.
Skin Health
Increased perspiration in hot, humid climates encourages bacterial and fungal growth. For those susceptible to skin problems, it is essential to maintain good personal hygiene, shower promptly after sweating, and keep the skin dry. Regular laundering of clothes, towels, and bedding can also help prevent skin infections.
Cardiovascular Health and Heart Qi
Summer, under the Five Elements Theory, corresponds to the Heart system, emphasizing the need to safeguard cardiovascular wellness. Rising temperatures put additional strain on the heart, so this is a time to ensure you’re following a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and managing mental stress wisely. These habits support the circulation of Heart Qi and help prevent cardiovascular events.
Even if you’re spending more time indoors to avoid the midday heat, I encourage you to maintain a regular daily routine, pursue online learning or health-related courses, and stay mentally stimulated and emotionally grounded.
Recommended Acupoints for Summer Health
- Nei Guan (内关, PC6)
Calms the heart, regulates emotions, and alleviates nausea and chest tightness.
Location: On the inner forearm, three finger-widths above the wrist crease, between the tendons.
- Zu San Li (足三里, ST36)
Strengthens the digestive system, boosts energy, and fortifies immunity.
Location: Four finger-widths below the kneecap, one finger-width lateral to the tibia.
- Yin Tang (印堂)
Calms the mind, reduces irritability, and promotes restful sleep.
Location: Midway between the eyebrows.
Apply gentle pressure for 1–2 minutes per point, 1–2 times daily.
Medicated Diets for Clearing Heat & Nourishing the Heart
- Mung Bean & Barley Soup (绿豆薏仁汤)
Clears heat, promotes urination, and reduces Dampness. Helps prevent heat rash and supports digestion.
- Lotus Leaf & Hawthorn Tea (荷叶山楂茶)
Supports Heart function, promotes blood circulation, and aids in digestion while reducing summer fatigue.
- Winter Melon & Red Bean Soup (冬瓜红豆汤)
Diuretic and cooling. Helps relieve water retention, detoxify, and reduce body heat.
In the spirit of health betterment, I will continue sharing acupressure tips and medicinal dietary guidance to support your wellness during this season.
Please feel free to share this message with friends and family—we welcome more individuals on our shared journey towards better health.
Thank you once again for being part of my healthcare program. I look forward to continuing this learning journey with you.
Warmest regards,
Dr. Clement Ng
27/04/2025