In the summer, we're supposed to be expansive.

Stretch our wings, reach the edges of our potential, perhaps even push boundaries.

Nature assists us in this expansion as we absorb her warmth.

But two environmental factors tend to inhibit us this time of year. One natural, one not.

The first is dampness (humidity). Dampness makes the muscles heavy. It's hard to expand when you don't feel like lifting your arms.

The second inhibiting factor is air conditioning. Cold contracts.

Here's a natural remedy for a natural problem - Add in a little bit of bitter and acrid foods:

asparagus, broccoli, kale, kohlrabi, radishes, scallions, turnips, watercress, lemon peel, orange peel, basil, cardamom, marjoram, oregano, parsley, sage, thyme, turmeric

The bitter flavor drains dampness and acrid disperses it.

For an unnatural problem, reduce or eliminate:

Keep the home temp. between 75-78 degrees F, cover up in cold commercial environments, and get outdoors regularly (with appropriate use of shade and except when it's unbearably hot).

PS I’ve decided to move Bite-Size over to the Substack platform to eliminate a technical glitch that has been costing me some life-hours. The change will happen this Friday.

You don’t need to do anything. You will receive emails as usual and can view online as you please. You don't need to set up a Substack profile or download the app.

As usual, if you can’t find the Bite-Size emails, check your Spam folder or Promotions tab, and move the emails to your primary inbox.