"The crabapple flowers have fallen, and the willow catkins have flown away; the long days of summer are truly here." As temperatures rise and the air grows humid, fatigue and restlessness become common, sometimes even leading to irritability.

Therefore, early summer health practices should start with nurturing the heart. Cooling the heart and dispelling inner heat naturally helps one pass the summer peacefully. At this time, besides a light, healthy diet and regular routine, what we need most by our side is a cup of green tea.

To nurture the heart, first nurture the body.

1. Green tea quenches thirst.

In hot weather, thirst is common, and compared to plain water, we prefer the fragrant aroma of tea. The polyphenols, amino acids, soluble pectin, and aromatic substances in tea stimulate the oral mucosa, promote saliva secretion, and have a thirst-quenching effect.

2. Green tea cools and refreshes.

Experienced tea drinkers know that only hot tea brings true comfort. The warmth of the tea promotes sweating, which helps dissipate body heat through evaporation. Additionally, components like caffeine in hot tea stimulate the kidneys and promote excretion. The more sweat evaporates, the better the body cools down, achieving a refreshing effect.

3. Green tea protects against sun damage and aging.

Summer is also a peak time for melanin deposition, and facial spots become a common annoyance for many.

Green tea is rich in catechins, tannins, and vitamin C, which have strong antioxidant properties, helping to maintain smooth, fair skin.

4. Green tea aids weight loss.

By May, excess weight becomes particularly noticeable in summer. The aromatic compounds in green tea dissolve fat, preventing its accumulation. Vitamins B1, C, and caffeine stimulate gastric secretion, aiding digestion and fat breakdown. The catechins in green tea also boost metabolism and clear free radicals, reducing fat cell buildup and promoting weight loss.

5. Green tea has antibacterial and digestive benefits.

In summer, improper food hygiene can lead to bacterial growth, making digestive ailments common. Studies show that tea has antibacterial properties, improves gut microbiota, inhibits harmful bacteria, and promotes beneficial bacteria, enhancing intestinal immunity.

6. Green tea replenishes potassium.

Excessive sweating in summer leads to potassium loss. Tea is a potassium-rich beverage, with 10.7 mg of potassium per gram of green tea. Drinking tea helps replenish potassium, maintaining normal metabolic functions—a key reason why tea is ideal for summer.

A calm heart brings natural coolness.

7. Green tea relieves fatigue and refreshes the mind.

Heavy sweating in summer depletes sodium, potassium, and magnesium, leading to tiredness. The caffeine in tea stimulates the nervous system, while polyphenols interact with saliva to invigorate the mind.

8. Green tea soothes and uplifts the spirit.

Summer is governed by the heart, and as heat rises, energy depletes, causing restlessness and fatigue. The caffeine in green tea stimulates the central nervous system, enhancing focus and clarity. Thus, keeping a cup of green tea nearby helps stabilize mood and maintain mental agility.

On weekends, pairing tea with a favorite book, soothing music, beautiful art, or a leisurely walk enhances relaxation and emotional balance.

Summer heart care begins with tranquility. As Taiwanese writer Lin Qingxuan once said, "The highest state of tea drinking is to deconstruct the character 'tea'—people amidst grass and trees, achieving harmony with nature." Immersed in the world of tea, even the hottest summer can feel like a gentle breeze.