EAM & Spring Expansion

In spring, all creatures take advantage of energy that was stored during the fall and winter months. New growth can be seen moving upward and outward, both emotionally and physically, via the reappearance of plants and animals, as well as our own emerging perspectives on life.

Spring is the season linked to the Wood element, and the Liver and Gall Bladder organ system. The energetic Liver should be soothed, nourished or regulated. Its function according to East Asian Medicine (EAM) is to circulate Qi (energy) upward and outward in the body as well as control the other organs. The Wood element is characterized by growth and wind, which tend to be found more often in the spring. Wind can strengthen the Liver, but too much can cause it to overact on the Stomach and Spleen. This can lead to a disharmony that may manifest as stomach upset and/or digestive disturbances, acid regurgitation, and possibly diarrhea. For those that may have overworked themselves the previous season, their immune systems may be compromised.

Spring allergens from grass and trees are blown through the air into our bodies. Theses allergens can affect a person, particularly if they are overstressed by life or emotionally overloaded. This, in turn, will weaken their digestive function and wei qi/immune system. An unbalanced Liver energy may result in mood swings, depression or irritability, and occasional outbursts of emotion.

To assist the Liver Qi to flow, incorporate activities that both enliven and relax the body. Exercise should be calm and fluid. Try breathing exercises, stretching, Qi gong, Tai Qi, light weights, and/or yoga. Joint support is important, as the tendons and ligaments are a manifestation of the Liver energies and is well covered by the aforementioned modalities. Rest and recovery, as for every season, are imperative to good health. In this season, going to bed somewhat later in the evening and waking up earlier are applicable.

Springtime foods should be sweet in flavor to nourish the spleen, with some pungentness (spicy) and warmth to help soothe and regulate the Liver’s functions, such as black sesame, quail or Chinese yams. Include some fresh greens like kale and spinach as well as young plants or sprouts. Foods that help soothe the Liver if it is out of balance include chive, onion, peppermint, beans, sea vegetables, vinegars, lime, & animal liver. Although sour flavored foods are good to have at this time, more is not necessarily better. Foods that clog the Liver, such as processed, sugary foods, excessively fatty and hydrogenated fats, are devoid of life and should be kept to a minimum. Other foods to avoid include salty, cold in temperature, excessive raw foods, or difficult to digest foods, accompanied by a decrease in calories to reduce the load placed on the Liver.

Acupuncture and Tuina should be utilized frequently to boost the immune system, alleviate sinus pressure & headaches associated with allergies, assist in digestion, moderate mood swings, and assist in recovery from exercise.

“In the spring and summer when food is plentiful and humans tend to become lazy and slothful, finger pressure is used to increase digestion, fire and restore vigor.” Qi Bo – Yellow Emperor’s Classic

By incorporating regular self care practices via mindfulness, nutrition, exercise, acupuncture and bodywork, one can best retain and improve their own health during this season of growth.

Read about the coming Summer