“The three months of spring are called the time of sprouting and unfolding. Heaven and earth sprout. Ten thousand things come to full bloom. Go to bed on time at night, and rise early. Take a relaxing walk through the garden. Let grow, but do not destroy. Give, but do not take. Reward, but do not punish. This is Spring in harmony with Qi, and the cultivation of the Dao of growth. Whoever resists these principles injures the Liver. Consequently, summer will bring cold changes, and there will be little foundation for further growth.”
— Huangdi Neijing (Inner Canon of the Yellow Emperor), Chapter 2 (adapted)
Spring is in full bloom. According to Daoist philosophy as well, spring is a period of sprouting and blossoming, both in nature and within ourselves. We awaken from the quiet and rest of the winter months, during which our energy (Qi) has been able to recover. Our daily routine slowly shifts from introverted, quiet Yin activities to more outward-facing Yang energy and extroverted activities. Instead of reading a book on the couch, we seek out to engage in events, and go cycling and walking.
The Wood Element: Strength and Flexibility
In the Five Elements theory, spring is the season of the Wood element. Wood represents sturdiness and strength, but at the same time, it is pliable and flexible, much like a tree and its branches. The properties of Wood apply not only to our physical body but also to our mind. Spring is a blossoming time when a lot happens, and it is up to us to handle it flexibly and mindfully.
Spring and the Liver
Additionally, spring is the time to take extra care of the Liver and Gallbladder. In TCM, the Liver/Gallbladder is considered the organ system responsible for the free flow of Qi and blood, as well as the proper functioning of the eyes, muscles, and tendons. The Liver/Gallbladder is connected to the Wood element and therefore also to the spring season.
Within Daoism and TCM, humans should live in harmony with the seasons, which includes eating according to the seasons as well. Whereas in winter we ate many warm, slow-cooked meals, in spring the focus shifts to more sour and fresh products.
TCM Spring food tips:
Seasonal green vegetables (Liver-supporting): Spinach, bok choy, endive, watercress, and broccoli.
Sour flavor (Liver-Qi circulation): Citrus fruits like orange, grapefruit, lemon, lime, etc., are considered beneficial for the Liver in TCM. Green apples, sour plums, and pickled sour vegetables are also examples of healthy sour foods you can add to your routine.
Sprouts and fresh herbs: Bean sprouts, alfalfa, and fresh herbs like cilantro, mint, and parsley are believed to be good for the Liver.
Preparation methods: In TCM, there is a preference for steaming, stir-frying, or short boiling (sautéing) rather than raw and cold preparations.
Why Acupuncture in the Spring?
Although spring is a beautiful time of growth, this season can actually cause stress for some. Physically, the blooming of spring flowers and trees can trigger allergies, such as hay fever. Mentally, there can also be more stress during this season due to increasing busyness at work, at home and other factors.
How can we integrate Daoist principles into our modern lives to experience spring optimally?
Seek balance: Embrace the blossoming energy of spring, but also try to find balance. Make room for routine rest, but be flexible when this isn’t possible.
Acupuncture: This is an effective way to allow Liver-Qi and Wei-Qi to flow freely again. It strengthens your immune system against pollen and allergies, but also helps you find extra relaxation in a busy and stressful time.
Diet & exercise: Through the combination of acupuncture, a healthy diet, and exercise, you bring your body and mind into balance. As the text from the Neijing says, relax your body and make room for what lives in your heart.
Spring invites us to be closer to nature again, to take more rest, and meanwhile also make room for growth. What will you apply this spring?
Curious about how acupuncture can support you?
Do you have hay fever, shoulder pain, headaches, or do you experience a lot of stress and are looking for relaxation? Make an appointment for acupuncture at my clinic in Amsterdam East.
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