Springtime and Chinese Medicine

Spring is the ideal time for cleansing and rejuvenation for overall health and well-being. As spring is represented by the wood element and includes the liver and its complementary organ, the gallbladder, these two organs are usually the primary targets for springtime cleansing and health regimens.
• Element: Wood
• Season: Spring
• Color: Green
• Nature: Yang
• Organs: Liver, Gallbladder
• Emotion: Anger (can also manifest as frustration, irritability, stress)
• Governs/ controls: Sinews and Tendons

The Liver Function in Chinese Medicine

According to the philosophy of Chinese medicine, the Liver (the energetic not the physiological organ) is responsible for the smooth flowing of Qi (energy) throughout the body. When the Liver functions smoothly, physical and emotional activity throughout the body also runs smoothly. When there is dysfunction of the Liver it can manifest as anger/frustration/ irritability, headaches, dry eyes, and frequent sprains/strains. It can also manifest as menstrual disorders including painful periods and PMS.
Helpful Spring Time Hints
Stretch - The liver controls the tendons. According to Chinese medicine, the liver stores blood during periods of rest and then releases it to the tendons in times of activity, maintaining tendon health and flexibility. Incorporate a morning stretch into your routine. Try yoga or Tai Qi.

Eat Green - Green is the color of the Liver and of springtime. Eating young plants - fresh, leafy greens, sprouts, and immature cereal grasses - can improve the Liver’s overall functions and aid in the movement of Qi.

Taste Sour - Foods and drinks with sour tastes are thought to stimulate the Liver's Qi. Put lemon slices in your drinking water, use vinegar and olive oil for your salad dressing. Garnish your sandwich with a slice of dill pickle.

Get Out and Move - Exercise moves Liver Qi flow. If you have been feeling irritable, find an outdoor activity to smooth out that Liver Qi stagnation. Go for a walk or take up bike riding

Do a Liver Cleanse
Clean out all the stuff your body accumulated during your winter hibernation mode. Liver cleanses are for detoxing the liver and kidneys, especially allowing the liver to regenerate and rejuvenate. Here is a nice one that I personally use every year. It was recommended to me by a dear friend and teacher Justin Pomeroy. Justin owns Life Gate Center in Chicago, IL and was one of the first people to start practicing acupuncture in Illinois. http://justinpomeroy.com/bio

SEE NEXT BLOG ARTICLE FOR A GREAT LIVER CLEANSE AND RECIPE FOR YUMMY GREENS!