Did you know that springtime is the Liver time? Chinese medicine is based on the movement occurring in nature and the relationship between your body and the external world.
According to this concept, all changes in nature also occur in your body in five distinct cyclical elements or phases. Each of these phases is associated with a particular time of year, a specific element in nature, a color, a pair of organs in your body and more.
Spring refers to the wood element. It is a time where branches grow and flowers blossom.
Spring is the ideal time for cleansing and rejuvenation for overall health and well-being after winter warming and heavy food. According to the philosophy of Chinese medicine, the Liver is responsible for the smooth movement of Qi Energy throughout the body. When the Liver functions smoothly, physical and emotional activity throughout the body also runs smoothly. If Qi gets stuck, it can lead to Liver Qi stagnation. This may manifest as neck and shoulder tension, chest tightness, digestive symptoms, PMS, migraines, poor sleep, irritability, and impatience or being easily frustrated. Because spring is the time of the Liver, you may start to notice an increase in your symptoms, especially if you are prone to Liver Qi Stagnation. So, spring is the time to take extra care of your Liver.
Here are some tips to keep your Liver Qi flowing smoothly, and to stay happy and healthy throughout spring.
Movement – A little exercise always makes you feel better and you feel it ever more when you feel stressed. That’s because you are moving your Liver Qi. The best way to stop Liver QI stagnation is to move it.
Stretch – The Liver controls the tendons in the body, so keeping them flexible and nourished are key to staying limber and healthy. Incorporate a morning and evening stretch into your routine. Try yoga, tai chi or qi gong.
Eat Green – Green is the color of the Liver and it relates directly to foods that benefit the Liver. Eating young plants-fresh, leafy greens, and sprouts-can improve the Liver’s overall functions and aid in the movement of qi.
Eat Sour – Foods and drinks with sour tastes are thought to stimulate the Liver’s qi. Start your day with a glass of lemon water, a simple, easy, and great way to benefit your Liver.
Acupuncture treatments – If you are still finding the transition into spring hard to deal with, come in for some acupuncture. A treatment can help regulate your Liver Qi, relieve your symptoms and make you ready to embrace this new season!