In Chinese tradition, the hottest period of summer is known as Sanfu (三伏), similar to what people in the UK call “the dog days of summer.” 2026 Dog Days Schedule (Sanfu is divided into three stages): - First Period: 15–24 July - Middle Period: 25 July–13 August - Final Period: 14–23 August “Fu” carries the meaning of lying low or seeking shelter from the intense summer heat. Traditionally, this is considered an important time to protect the body, support energy and practise seasonal self-care. The first 10 days are coming to an end, and the 20-day Middle Fu begins tomorrow—the main chapter of the dog days. During Early Fu, some people enjoyed a daily ginger drink. Others received regular YSD Medicine treatments or Wen Da Fu warming care—a traditional martial arts herbal formula associated with Shaolin practices and traditionally used to support warmth and ease feelings of cold and dampness. Meanwhile, some carried on with strong air conditioning and iced drinks—old summer habits are hard to break! As Middle Fu begins, remember that sleep, gentle movement, nourishing food and self-care all matter: 1. Rest for around 20 minutes between 11:00 am and 1:00 pm, if possible. Avoid sleeping for more than an hour, as this may leave you feeling groggy. 2. Exercise gently. Take an evening walk when the temperature is cooler—a light sweat is enough. 3. Choose warm, light and nourishing foods, such as ginger, ginseng and red-date tea, Chinese yam, eggs, cooked meat and vegetables. 4. It is never too late to begin—what matters is taking the first step. Book a YSD Medicine treatment or give yourself a comforting Wen Da Fu warming session. If you missed Early Fu, don’t worry—Middle Fu is still a wonderful time to begin. The dog days are here. Slow down, stay balanced and care for your inner warmth. Make the most of this once-a-year seasonal wellness window!!!  Learn the principles and practical skills of YSD Medicine to support your wellbeing and help care for yourself and your family. Our next YSD Medicine course is coming soon. Follow our social media channels for course dates, registration details and future announcements.

The 40 days of the Dog Days of Summer are ideal for strengthening the body. In traditional Chinese health wisdom, yang energy is strongest now. Circulation improves, pores open, and warmth penetrates more easily—supporting balance and vitality. If you have cold hands and feet, low energy, or sensitivity to cold, take extra care during this time. 2026 Dog Days Schedule - First Period: 15–24 July - Middle Period: 25 July–13 August - Final Period: 14–23 August Three Habits to Avoid - ❄️ Staying in strong air conditioning all day - 🧊 Drinking lots of iced drinks - 🚿 Cold showers right after sweating Simple Daily Wellness Tips ☀️ Warm your back Sunbathe for about 30 minutes at midday, then drink warm water or ginger tea. 🦶 Warm your feet Soak feet in warm water (42°C) for 15 minutes between 7–9 pm. Then apply AWA Ginger Juice Gel to the feet. AWA Ginger Juice - 220× Concentrated Ginger – One 50 ml bottle delivers the equivalent of 11 kg of fresh ginger. A premium-quality, exclusive formulation designed to provide exceptional ginger concentration and convenience. 🍵 Start Your Day with AWA Ginger Tea . Best enjoyed in the morning. Add 3–5 drops of AWA Ginger Juice Gel to a small amount of warm water . Do not stir. Drink it in one go. Best taken after breakfast. The trick: By not stirring and drinking it in one go, you'll experience less of the spicy taste while still enjoying the full flavour and concentration of the ginger. A simple daily ritual to help you start your day feeling energised and ready to thrive. Everyday Reminders - Drink warm water - Keep shoulders and back warm - Limit cold foods and drinks - Take a short midday nap What You May Notice - Week 1: Warmer hands and feet - Week 2: Better tolerance to AC - Week 3: More energy - By Day 40: Improved warmth and vitality Small daily habits can make a lasting difference. Summer is the ideal time to prepare your body for the colder months ahead. Life follows a cycle, just as nature moves through the seasons. By taking care of yourself now, you can build a stronger foundation for autumn and winter. The best way to reduce your risk of illness is through consistent, healthy habits. Looking after your wellbeing during the summer helps your body become more resilient, so you're better prepared when the colder weather arrives.  Prevention begins with the choices we make every day. Small daily habits today can lead to better health tomorrow.