What thoughts come to mind when you think of springtime? Warmer weather, birds singing, trees and flowers blooming? There is an upsurge of energy as everything moves upward and forward. There is an excitement in the air full of hope and promise. Have you ever considered how these external changes affect our body, physically and mentally?
In traditional Chinese medicine this time of year is considered the “wood” time; there is a fresh quality in the air, a time of new beginnings and fresh starts, a vibrant quality, as everything comes alive after the cool and dormant months of winter. Spring is also the time to put those New Year resolutions into motion. Just as the plants and trees push up through the ground and blossom around us, we are also motivated to make changes and grow. The energy of the spring season supports these changes and gives us a sense of purpose and hope for the future.
The wood element is the planner and organizer of our existence and relates to the liver and gallbladder organs of the body. The liver filters through information and formulates a “plan” and the gallbladder then makes decisions regarding the plan. When these organs are out of balance in the body, we have a difficult time making decisions and putting our plans into action. Simply speaking, on a physical level, the liver filters out toxic substances in our blood and plays a part in many other metabolic processes in the body.
Some symptoms of stuck or stagnant “wood” energy are irritability, red/dry eyes, fatigue, tendon problems, digestive problems (acid reflux), and changes in fingernail quality. So how do we keep our “wood” energy in balance? It’s important to limit the amount of toxic substances we introduce into our bodies like alcohol, cigarettes, processed foods and artificial sweeteners. Exercise at least three times a week to get our hearts pumping and blood moving. Stress is a major factor, therefore limiting our exposure to “toxic” people and situations in our lives is helpful as well as changing the way we choose to deal with them. Acupuncture, herbal medicine, and seasonal treatments can boost the immune system, and help reduce stress by smoothing out the wood energy and by eliminating energy blockages. So, let’s spring forward into a healthier future!
For more information please contact Kathleen Kenneally L.Ac. of Kenneally Acupuncture & Healing Light Center at 661-252-4100.