The Great Heat Solar Term, July 22nd, 2025

As we approach the Great Heat Solar Term in the Northern Hemisphere on July 22^nd, dramatic weather events have been unfolding across Europe and North America. Many regions are experiencing unprecedented weather extremes, including scorching heat waves and destructive flooding.

Southern Europe, in particular, has been hit hard by a series of severe weather events such as violent storms, raging wildfires, and record-breaking temperatures. Countries like Croatia, Serbia, Spain, and France are facing significant challenges, mirroring the intense conditions seen across North America.

These natural phenomena vividly illustrate the characteristics of Qi for the year and the third Qi period. During this time, Shaoyang (Fire) Qi serves as the seasonal Qi, while Jueyin (Wind) Qi acts as the Guest Qi, creating a dynamic interplay. When examining the broader Qi influence for 2025—comprising Jueyin (Wind) and Shaoyang (Fire)—it's evident that both Wind and Fire factors are becoming more intense, heightening their climactic effects.

When an element becomes excessive, a balancing by the controlling element, known as the ‘revenge’ Qi, typically occurs. Currently, we are experiencing severe flooding caused by heavy rains in many areas, which is the Water element balancing Fire. The Metal element, which controls Wood, is weaker this year because 2025 is influenced by the Deficient Metal Five Period Qi (Wu Yun). Therefore, manifestations of the Wood Qi will not be checked or balanced.

For those in clinical practice, it would not be unusual to see an increase in excessive Wood patterns and imbalances between Fire and Water (Heart and Kidney systems) and between Fire and Metal (Heart and Lung systems).

Once July 22nd passes, the seasonal Qi naturally shifts to Taiyin, Dampness, marking the fourth Qi period of the year. This phase is characterized by increased moisture and a subtle cooling influence in nature. Interestingly, this year, the Guest Qi for this period is Shaoyin, or Heat, which can bring warmer temperatures than usual. An article about the fourth Qi period will be posted once we transition further into the late summer season.

For a deeper understanding of these energetic patterns and how they shape our year, explore our previous article: "The 2025 Annual Qi: A Yi Si Year, the Year of the Wood Snake." Dive into the dynamic world of Qi and discover how ancient wisdom explains modern natural phenomena.

Click Here to learn more and to stay connected to the rhythm of 2025, and order the 2025 Qi Lunar Calendar Datebook and preorder the 2026 Annual Qi Lunar Calendar: Year of the Fire Horse Datebook soon to be released.