Spring is Here!

Spring cleaning, spring cleanses, spring fever, spring forth, spring, spring, spring is here! Can you feel the energy of spring?  Do you feel it's tender shoots pushing through the dirt towards the sun? After winter's slumber the plants, animals and humans are ready to start new beginnings. This is the energy of spring as described in Chinese medicine.

In Chinese medicine each of the five seasons (the fifth is late summer) are represented by the five elements which are correlated to the organ systems. Spring is the wood element and is represented by the liver and its complimentary organ the gallbladder. The liver governs the tendons, eyes and fingernails. It also plays an important role in the reproductive system. The liver is responsible for the smooth flow of qi (energy) through the body, the emotion of anger and the ability to make a shouting sound. When out of balance qi stagnation can occur and symptoms such as digestive troubles, muscle pain or tightness, headaches, eye problems, and menstrual difficulties may arise.

You can support the body and help it return to a place of balance by trying the suggestions below...

• Move those muscles! Yoga, walking, dancing, aerobics, biking, whatever it is that like to do. The important thing is that you are getting movement. This helps move the qi throughout the body preventing stagnation. It can also have a profound effect on how you feel emotionally. 
• Get outside! The outdoor air also helps to move the qi. Consider taking a 30 minute walk during your lunch time and reap the benefits of fresh air.
• Eat your greens! Green is the color of the liver and eating greens greatly benefits the liver detoxification. Kale, collards, chard, mustard, dandelion (very beneficial for the liver), arugula and beet greens are all great options. If possible eat young plants, fresh greens and sprouts. These emphasize the yang, ascending and expansive qualities of spring.
• Exercise your eyes! The liver opens to the eyes and affects proper eye function. Taking breaks from the computer - looking to the distance every 15-20 minutes is a good rule - supports your eye health.
• Eat sour foods! Sour reduces excesses of the liver. An easy way to get this is from unrefined organic apple-cider vinegar. Brown-rice and rice-wine vinegars are options. The vinegars are more warming. If you need a cooling option lemon or lime are great.
• Get an acupuncture treatment! Acupuncture is excellent at helping move the qi and unblock those stagnant areas. If you are feeling stress, frustration or anger come in for a tune-up. You will be amazed at how much better you feel. You may even leave with more spring in your step!