Chinese Medicine and Spring wellness advice to live by.

Clothing – Be sure to keep warm. Remember Spring
is all about changing weather. Wind is the force
of nature that is associated with Spring and wood
in TCM. Spring winds can whip up quickly an
remind us of winter. Take a scarf or an extra jacket
or sweater with you for protection.

Food and Beverages – Eat a lighter diet to lose
winter’s weight. Be sure to eat more steamed green
vegetables. Include more sour taste in your diet.
Foods and drinks with sour tastes are thought to
stimulate the liver’s Qi. Put lemon slices in your
drinking water, use vinegar and olive oil for your
salad dressing. Garnish your sandwich with a slice of
dill pickle.

Activity – The liver controls the tendons.
According to Chinese medicine, the liver stores
blood during periods of rest and then releases it to
the tendons in times of activity, maintaining tendon
health and flexibility. Also include some more vigorous movement to help break up stagnant liver Qi.

Direction – East is the direction of wood. This
direction represents new growth as echoed by the
rising of the sun in the east.

Emotion – Anger is the emotion associated with
wood and spring. Spring is a good period to let go of
stagnant emotions like frustration. Just as the sprout
may hit a rock as it grows; it will not try and grow
through the rock. So, flexibility in mind and body
are essential for a balanced wood element. Express
yourself through positive means to help let go of any
tension.

Eye Exercises – In Chinese Medicine, liver opens
into the eyes. Although all the organs have some
connection to the health of the eyes, the liver is
connected to proper eye function. Remember
to take breaks when looking at a computer for
extended periods of time. Make some time to let
go of all the muscles around your eyes. Soften your
glare, relax, and look at infinity.

Eat Green – Green is the color of the wood and
of springtime. Green is a master color; able to
reduce excess or tonify deficiency. Eating young
plants – fresh, leafy greens, sprouts, and immature
cereal grasses can improve the liver’s overall functions and aid in the movement of Qi

Source: Spring wellness advice from Ken Rosen, Spa and TCM Specialist www.spatcm.com