Spring has arrived
Spring is here! Time to get ready for a burst of energy and new beginnings.
Just like you, I also feel the seasonal shift in energy. It can be tough for some, but it's a great time to get an acupuncture treatment.
Many of our regular patients come back in spring for some Traditional Chinese Medicine to boost their energy during this time of changing Qi.
As microcosms of nature, we all process the Five Elements within us. However, just as nature has a hierarchical structure of elements, so too does our inner climate. Understanding this interplay is crucial for an acupuncturist to diagnose and treat you. It also provides you with valuable tools to better comprehend and maintain your own health.
Wood Element
Chinese medicine is all about the balance of Yin and Yang, and the Five Elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. Each season is linked to a different element and organ system. Each element has its own color, sound, emotion, smell, time of day, season, weather, taste, and power.
Springtime corresponds to the Wood Element. The characteristic of Wood is growth, and the associated organs are the Liver and Gallbladder. Energetically, the Liver facilitates the smooth flow of the Qi, enabling individuals to initiate and execute change. The Gallbladder plays a crucial role in this process as it's responsible for making decisions.
Anger
When the flow of Liver Qi becomes obstructed, we experience feeling of anger, irritability, depression,migraines, pain, tension and tightness especially in the neck shoulders and side of the body. Additionally it can cause PMS, cramps, excessive sighing and indigestion.
Over time, this 'Liver Qi Stagnation' can lead to an over-stimulation of the sympathetic nervous system, resulting in elevated cortisol levels and consequently increased stress. This heightened stress can compromise the immune system.
Tips for balancing Wood Element
Get Moving
Lemon water, time to detox
Eat seasonal, fresh food
Sour food (e.g., fermented food, apple cider vinegar)
A lot of greens as it's the color of the Wood Element
Bitter greens (e.g., dandelion, nettles, coriander, parsley, oregano, etc.)
Acupressure points (Not for pregnancy)
LI 4 - between the thumb and pointer finger, is the point to treat colds and flu, boosting the body’s defences against recurrence. It’s a powerful anti-inflammatory point that relieves pain, especially in the head and face, with a calming/analgesic effect.
LV 3 - between the big and second toes, is crucial for Qi movement and energy flow, especially during stress. It releases tension, reducing stress, anger, depression, blood pressure, pain, and menstrual cramps.
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