How to Stay Healthy This Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of summer—time to relax, celebrate, and connect with friends and family. But with all the barbecues, beach days, drinks, and late nights, it’s easy to slip out of balance and feel drained after the fun is over.  Read on for some helpful tips on how to stay healthy this Memorial Day Weekend (and any other holiday weekend).

At Pacific Beach Acupuncture, we believe in enjoying life without sacrificing your health goals. Chinese medicine teaches that health is about balance and moderation, not deprivation. With a few mindful choices, you can have a vibrant weekend and still feel amazing when it’s over.

You don’t have to skip the burgers and corn on the cob—but consider these tips to keep your digestion happy:

• Fill your plate with colorful veggies first. Bring a dish to share like grilled zucchini, cucumber salad, or watermelon with mint.

• Balance heavier foods (like red meat or fried sides) with cooling, hydrating options like greens, cucumber, or citrus.

• Chew slowly and avoid overeating just because food is abundant—listen to your body’s fullness cues.

• If you’re sensitive to alcohol or sugar, support digestion with ginger tea or a digestive herbal formula post-meal.

In Chinese medicine, the Spleen and Stomach are central to energy and immunity. Overeating, especially cold or greasy foods, can lead to dampness and sluggishness. Keep meals simple and grounding when possible.

Drinks are part of many holiday gatherings—but they don’t have to derail your wellness.

• Alternate alcohol with sparkling water + citrus or herbal mocktails.

• Eat a solid meal before drinking to avoid blood sugar crashes.

• Limit sugary mixers and opt for lighter options like tequila with lime or grapefruit juice (try to make sure the juice doesn’t contain added sugars).

• Support liver health with herbs like milk thistle or schisandra berry if you’re indulging.

Chinese medicine views the Liver as the organ most impacted by alcohol and stress. Supporting your Liver with rest, hydration, and bitter greens can help you bounce back faster.

Even a little movement can help regulate your digestion, mood, and energy over the weekend:

• Go for a walk after meals—especially if you’ve had a heavier dinner.

• Stretch in the morning or try light yoga to support circulation and lymphatic flow.

• Dance! Social movement is great for both the body and spirit.

In TCM, movement keeps Qi flowing and prevents stagnation—the root of fatigue, irritability, and even physical pain.

Holidays are meant to be joyful, but too much stimulation can leave you feeling depleted.

• Choose quality over quantity—prioritize the people who fill your cup.

• Take mini breaks from noise and screens. A few minutes of quiet outside can reset your energy.

• Balance social time with restorative practices like meditation, journaling, or a short acupuncture session.

According to Chinese medicine, too much excitement or emotional overstimulation can disturb the Heart and Shen (spirit)—leading to poor sleep, anxiety, or restlessness. Protect your peace, even during celebrations.

Enjoying the weekend doesn’t have to mean falling off track. After the fun, it’s the perfect time to recenter.

At Pacific Beach Acupuncture, we offer acupuncture, cupping, and herbal medicine to:

• Reset digestion and calm bloating

• Support liver detox and immune function

• Replenish energy and reduce post-party fatigue

• Promote restful sleep and mental clarity

Book Your Post-Holiday Reset

Ready to feel grounded and energized again? Schedule a rejuvenating treatment with us to support your summer wellness goals—without skipping the fun.

 Book your appointment today and keep your body and mind aligned all season long.