Happy Spring!
In last year’s spring newsletter I wrote about how spring is associated with an upward and outward motion in Chinese medicine, like a plant growing out of the soil, trees growing up and expanding outward with branches and leaves, animals emerging from hibernation, and similarly, all of us wanting to get the F outside, and perhaps feeling an urge to socialize after being cooped up for the winter.
Spring is also associated with the liver organ system, which, according to Chinese medicine, governs the smooth flow of energy, or qi, throughout the body. When this energy is stifled, it can lead to stagnation, which can feel like irritability, anger, or can even manifest in a physical way with pain or digestive issues.
A good example of this phenomenon is when you’re feeling irritable, and you’re able to convince yourself to exercise, and then you feel much better afterward. Physiologically you’ve improved circulation, increased respiration rate, and released mood-boosting endorphins, among other positive actions. You moved stuck qi!
According to Chinese medicine, here are a few things you can do to support your body’s transition to spring and the smooth flow of qi:
Spring is a great time to set and tackle big and expansive personal and professional goals, dream big, plan, and go for it!
Movement is almost always a good idea, but now you can take advantage of the warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours to prioritize exercise with your favorite outdoor activities or classes. When in doubt, walking or stretching is a great place to start.
Seasonal eating in spring means incorporating more leafy greens, sprouts, and sour foods (think lemons and other citrus), while limiting heavy, greasy foods that can slow down digestion.
You knew it was coming.. Acupuncture! The changing of seasons is your queue to schedule an acupuncture tune-up to help your body adjust. It’s common to notice health issues flare up at the changing of the seasons, and acupuncture is a great way to treat symptoms like digestive issues, allergies, and stress while also helping your body assimilate to changes in the environment. Acupuncture is also stellar at moving and promoting the smooth flow of qi in your body.
Letting the active and expansive nature of spring to guide your behavior is a great way to tune into the natural rhythm of the season.