Traditional Chinese Medicine Changing of the Seasons | Spring

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Five Elements theory is a guide that organizes the phases into groups such as a season, direction, climate, stage of growth and development, internal organ, emotions, etc. It indicates how all these categories are influenced by one another and physical symptoms can manifest itself when there is an imbalance between the groups. 

Each element is associated with a season, nature, and part of the body.

As we head into Spring it’s important to understand its relationship with Liver and what we can do to get the maximum benefits during this season. The structure and systems in our bodies are all connected to one another. Spring/Wood is associated with regeneration, new beginnings, and potential. Liver’s essence is to move energy upward and outward similar to the branches of a tree thus its attachment to wood. The liver is responsible for moving qi effectively and efficiently throughout the body. A block in liver qi can manifest as neck and shoulder pain, digestive symptoms, migraine, impatience, and irritability. 

Take care of your liver

The eyes are the sensory organ related to the Liver. Take breaks from the computer or your phone if your eyes are feeling strained, blurry vision, or experience dry eyes. It could be a sign that your liver is not functioning smoothly.

The tendons are the tissue related to the Liver. According to TCM, focusing on the tendons rather than muscles will increase overall strength. Choose gentle exercises to prevent overstretching the tendons thus losing their flexibility.

Anger and frustration are the emotions associated with the Liver. Fixating too much on these emotions can cause the qi to rise up too quickly causing headaches and more frustration. Instead acknowledge the emotions, sit in the feelings for a moment, and let it go. Redirect the energy into positive actions. 

If you crave sour taste that may be your Liver asking for sour foods. Sour foods stimulates digestion and metabolism, helps breakdown fats, and drains excessive build up in the liver. 

Take care of your body

The liver is responsible for metabolizing alcohol. Drinking alcohol in moderation can help give your liver a break. In addition, you can nourish and cleanse your liver qi by adding greens to your diet. Some leafy greens and sprouts include alfalfa, asparagus, collard greens, kale, seaweed, and watercress. 

Massages and acupuncture are great ways to get the qi moving. Massages help stimulate the circulatory system and assists in the body’s detoxification functions. Both acupuncture and massage can help release blocked qi allowing it to flow smoothly.

Take care of your mind

The Spring season is a time of change and growth. Take advantage of the new energy filled with promise of new ideas, inspiration, and new projects. It’s the time to reflect on the prior season and decide what to leave behind in the next season.