The Summer Solstice is the fourth solar term in summer. On this day, the sun shines directly on the Tropic of Cancer, making it the longest day of the year in the northern hemisphere.

The lotus is in full bloom. The cicadas begin to chirp. Abundant rainfall makes it the golden period of farming in a year.

After this day, daylight hours get shorter, and temperatures become higher.

The Summer Solstice is the day when Yang-Qi is at its extreme and the Yin-Qi begins to grow. Therefore, people should protect Yang-Qi to correspond to the season.

The exercise of the Summer Solstice improves the Heart Meridian Sinew of Hand-Shaoyin.

It originates from the inner side of the little finger, goes up into the armpit along the inside of the elbow, then extends to the chest, runs down the diaphragm, and connects to the navel.

When inhaling, step back with one foot and sit back. Meanwhile, push forward your hands with fingers crossed.

Retract the back foot and put down your hands as you exhale.

Repeat several times according to your own conditions.

Summer belongs to fire in the five elements and represents bitterness in the five flavors, so eating bitter food can clear summer heat and increase appetite.

(Video: Shanghai Qigong Research Institute)