|
The philosophical principles of the Five Elements used in Traditional Chinese Medicine refer to the balance and flow of qi, yin and yang energies that occur during specific times of year. According to this philosophy, your body changes in accord with the five elements that occur with a specific season: Fire relates to summer, Earth relates to late summer, Metal relates to fall, Water relates to winter, Wood relates to spring. Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioners use principles related to these elements to examine the imbalances of the body, diagnose, and treat health problems.
Spring is thought to be a good time to detox and cleanse because it the time of year when activity returns. If we stay in winter-hibernation-mode too long, i.e. if we don’t start moving, our Liver energy stagnates causing muscle aches and pains especially on the sides of the body, irritability and anger, sighing, PMS, constipation or irregular digestion. Keep your Liver Qi flowing smoothly this season! Move your body – help your Liver flow by keeping your body moving. Try yoga or Tai Chi or go for a walk around the block and breathe in some fresh air! Eat Greens – try to incorporate as many green vegetables into your diet, slightly cooked or sautéed is the best! Taste Sour – Sour flavors stimulate liver qi. Add lemon to your water, try apple cider vinegar + honey in warm water, use vinegar and olive oil for your salad dressing. Spring Clean – Just like your body, the energy in your home can stagnate, so it’s time to clear out space to help the flow of energy in your home. Get Acupuncture treatments – Acupuncture rebalances the overall health of your body to help alleviate symptoms associated with Liver Qi stagnation. |
Spring is represented by the following qualities: 
Royal Road Clinic: mind body care 