The arrival of Spring, brings with it some welcome sunshine, new growth and optimism.
The energy of Spring is one of upward expansion and movement. This is a time when we naturally want to expend more energy and become more active.
It can be a particularly challenging time health wise, as we emerge from the colder months feeling sluggish and fatigued. There can also be chronic health issues carried forward from the previous season. Particularly this year, as many have had to forego their regular exercise routines and health care practices that usually sustain us over the Winter time.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, this is the season of the Liver and the Gallbladder. An imbalance in this area can show up as allergies, anxiety, insomnia, digestive issues and muscle and tendon tightness – particularly through the diaphragm, thoracic area and across the top of the shoulders.
When the Liver energy is out of balance, we can feel pent up, irritable and generally out of sorts. To move some of this stagnation, it is helpful to stretch through the sides of the body, rolling and shrugging the shoulders to release tension, breathing deep into the belly and finding an activity that brings you joy, such as dancing, singing or whatever it may be for you.
Whilst many think of undertaking an extreme Spring detox at this time, in Traditional Chinese Medicine we focus instead on gently harmonising the Liver to aid its cleansing and detoxifying function.
A good way to support the Liver in Spring is to make some simple changes to the diet.
To compliment the dynamic energy of the season, add some lighter foods into your meals. Seasonal green veggies such as asparagus, broad beans, watercress and small amounts of sour flavors, such as lemon or lime can help move the Qi.
In addition, foods that are naturally bitter or pungent can be beneficial during Spring. These include foods such as broccoli, cabbage, papaya, watercress, cardamom, dill, radish and also the use of fresh herbs such as mint, chamomile, rosemary and coriander.
We all have different needs depending on our health care concerns and constitution. During a TCM consultation, dietary and lifestyle advice is tailored specifically to the individual’s particular circumstances and health requirements.
If you would like to discuss how Chinese Medicine may be of help to you, feel free to send me a message through the contact form or phone the clinics: Williamstown 93999 659 Yarraville 9689 7901. I would be happy to discuss treatment options with you.
Elisabeth