Spring in Traditional Chinese Medicine is characterized by the rise of Yang energy. The sun warms the earth and nature awakens. It is the start of a new cycle. A similar process takes place in ourselves. New plans are set in motion and our body is waking up. Spring is associated with the Wood element and with the Liver and the Gallbladder meridians.
The Liver
The Liver stores the Blood which moistens the eyes and sinews, and regulates menstruation.
The Liver smoothens the flow of Qi which affects emotions like irritability, anger, depression, and premenstrual syndrome.
The Liver houses the ethereal soul (Hun) which is responsible for our plan, our ideas, our inspiration, and our creativity.
The Gallbladder
The Gallbladder stores and excretes bile which depends on the free flow of the Qi of the Liver.
The Gallbladder controls decisiveness and controls initiative and courage.
The Gallbladder controls the sinews by providing Qi to ensure proper movement and agility.
Spring and Its Symptoms
You could benefit greatly from a spring acupuncture tune-up if you experience any of these symptoms:
- Allergy or hypersensitivity problems
- Neck or shoulder tension
- Headaches or migraines
- Insomnia, especially if there are frequent awakenings between 11 pm and 3 am
- Painful periods or premenstrual syndrome
- Frustration, irritability, anger, anxiety, or depression
- Restlessness or hyperactivity
- Slow digestion, nausea, or constipation
- Blurred vision or dry, gritty, swollen, red, or painful eyes
A Time to Get Out of our Lair, Get Moving, and Start New Projects
It is important to know that in the spring the energy is expanding. If we stay on our sofas in a more sluggish state, this energy will stagnate and may cause many imbalances in the body.
Spring is a good time to get back in shape. But be careful not to skip any steps. Choose progressive training, adapted to your condition, and do not forget to stretch.
By exercising you create movement and warmth that strengthen your sinews and tendons which are controlled by the Liver. Exercising also allows the Qi to move more freely. Outdoors activities are particularly beneficial. Looking at the horizon and looking at the color green harmonize the Liver.
Spring is the perfect time to start new projects. And maybe even step out of our comfort zone by trying new things.
Do your famous spring cleaning and give away things that no longer serve you. Create space to let new things come into your life.
