Women's Health Spring is associated with new growth and expansion. As seeds begin to sprout and push toward the sun with force, we may feel inspired to move forward ourselves and grow after our own winter hibernation. Spring effects summer in the same way that a plant grows and produces fruits, likewise a person is able to bring their budding energies to full potential by living in harmony with the seasons. This time of year is a good time to start new projects. Our mind, body and spirit have different needs from season to season and according to traditional Chinese medicine, there are simple ways you can support your health throughout the year. In regards to diet, springtime is when we should be cooking lighter meals using methods like steaming and stir-frying. Eating green foods like kale, spouts, asparagus, dandelion greens, spinach, collards, sprouts, lettuce, peas, scallions and mint as well as sour foods like lime, lemon, tomatoes, yogurt, vinegar, fermented foods like kimchee, sauerkraut and pickles. Many of these foods can be found locally as they are in season.

As mentioned before the energy of Spring is expansive and outward moving so it’s time for people to go outside, exercise and sweat. Move your Qi for optimal health!

In Chinese medicine, Spring is associated with the Liver organ. The Liver energy, when balanced, smoothies our emotional energy. If a person was not able to let go of emotions in the Fall it can show in the Spring as congestion. If the Liver energy is congested, emotional outbursts (frustration, anger, and agitation) can occur frequently and with less prompting. The Liver energy controls decision making so, a balanced Liver allows us to follow through with our creative visions. A Liver with excess energy can manifest as an inappropriate determination to accomplish goals that the individual may become a “workaholic”.

Avoid:

  • Chemicals, drugs and alcohol
  • Greasy, fatty foods
  • Stress
  • Caffeine, refined sugar and processed foods

Include: Womens Health

  • Have fun!
  • Steam, grill and stir-fry
  • Practice stress relief techniques
  • Eat a well-balanced diet with plenty fruits, vegetables and grains

Staying healthy for Spring

If you are experiencing symptoms associated with a imbalanced liver, it may be a good time to seek a Chinese Medicine practitioner who provide acupuncture, herbal supplements, custom tailor a diet that will support your health, and suggest lifestyle recommendations including exercise and stress relief practices.