_edited.png)
March is here, and we are beginning to see glimmers of spring. It’s that time of year when it’s warm one day and freezing the next, with the wind picking up as well. On a warm day, if you gaze outside, you might see birds busily flying around, ready to nest and welcome their little ones. For allergy sufferers, this is also when pollen becomes active, bringing along those familiar symptoms.
Spring and the Wood Element
In Chinese medicine, spring is associated with the Wood element, symbolized by the trunk of a tree — strongly rooted in the earth, yet flexible. Just as spring invites dormant plants to peek out and make an appearance, so does our Qi, which has been mostly resting during the cold, dark winter. Now, our Qi begins to rise, and you may feel a renewed desire to get active and moving. It’s the perfect time to revisit those New Year’s resolutions and start bringing projects to life.
The Influence of Wind in Spring
Wind is another key aspect of spring. In Chinese medicine, it’s one of the Six External Pathogenic Factors, known for stirring things up — including colds, flu symptoms, headaches, itchy eyes, and even moving aches and pains. Wind tends to invade the body through vulnerable areas like the neck, head, and upper back, which is why wearing a scarf during breezy days can help protect against sudden ailments.
The Liver and Gall Bladder Connection
The Wood element is linked to the Liver and Gall Bladder. The Liver is considered the General of the body, commanding and regulating the smooth flow of Qi and governing the tendons. The Gall Bladder controls the tendons, ligaments and cartilage particularly in the limbs and is the Official that plays a key role in decision making.
Nourishing the Liver Through Diet
Nourishing your Liver during spring can be as simple as adjusting your diet. Green, natural, and unprocessed foods help detoxify the body and support the Liver and Gall Bladder. Think leafy greens like kale, spinach, and Swiss chard, along with sprouts, broccoli, asparagus, and herbs like mint, basil, and parsley. Aim for a balance: about 60% cooked foods and 40% raw, adjusting as needed based on your digestion and avoid fried and greasy foods.
Balancing Emotions in Spring
Emotionally, an imbalanced Wood element can manifest as anger, frustration, or feeling stuck. The energy of Wood wants to grow and expand, so when it’s blocked, these emotions can surface. Stretching, moving, and engaging in regular physical activity helps the Liver regulate Qi flow, releasing pent-up emotions and restoring balance. When our Wood element is balanced, the gifts of benevolence, flexibility, creativity and action emerge, paving the way for us to live in alignment with our true nature.
4 Ways to Live in Harmony with the Spring Season
Rise early and greet the day with movement. Let the morning sun energize your body and lift your spirit. As you walk or stretch, notice the budding life around you and connect with the season’s renewal.
Nourish your liver with plenty of green foods and stay hydrated.
Embrace fresh starts. Just like nature bursts with new growth, allow yourself to try new things. Approach situations with curiosity, create something meaningful, and let go of what no longer serves you.
Plant the seeds for future growth. Use spring’s vibrant energy to set intentions for the months ahead. The efforts you make now will blossom into the experiences and outcomes you wish to cultivate.
Comments