Which element is identified with late summer?

The element associated with late summer is Earth. In the context of traditional Chinese medicine and the five phases (or elements) theory, each season corresponds to a specific element, and late summer is linked to the Earth element. This period represents a time of transition, stability, nourishment, and grounding. Earth is seen as the central element among the five, embodying qualities of balance and support, which aligns with the harvest season when the Earth's bounty is reaped.

The Earth element is also related to various physiological functions in the body, including digestion and the spleen, reflecting its role in sustaining life and providing stability. By understanding the attributes of the Earth element during late summer, practitioners can apply this knowledge in treatments and practices that focus on harmony and internal balance.