Spring Forward!

On Saturday we should have changed our clocks forward one hour (which means we lost an hour of sleep) but it also means that come Monday at 5pm when I am leaving work, the sun will still be out!
Spring is slowly but surely coming, and I for one can’t wait ;)

“Spring: It is the long-awaited change of winter to spring. Seeds sprout, flowers bloom, and the sun warms the earth. There is a sense of renewal and new life all around. While winter was a time to conserve energy and reduce activity, spring is a time of regeneration, new beginnings, and a renewal of spirit.”

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), spring is the ideal time for cleansing, rejuvenating, and for overall health and well-being. Spring corresponds to the "wood" element, which in TCM is related to the liver. The liver is responsible for the smooth flowing of Qi (energy) throughout the body. When the liver functions smoothly, physical and emotional activity throughout the body also runs smoothly.

Make the best of the springtime!

Stretch ~ since the liver is responsible for maintaining a free flow of Qi, start your days off by stretching before you get out of bed in the morning to maintain tendon health and flexibility.
So put some “spring” in your step and move your Qi!

Eat Green ~ green is the color of the liver and of springtime. Eating young plants such as fresh, leafy greens, sprouts, and dandelions can improve the liver’s overall functions and aid in the movement of qi.

Go Sour ~ foods and drinks with sour tastes stimulate the liver's qi. Put lemon or lime slices in your drinking water, use flavored vinegar and olive oil for your salad dressing. Have a sour pickle with that sandwich.

Get Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal treatments~ Acupuncture and Oriental medicine can help improve the overall health of your liver as well as treat stress, anger and frustration, which are often associated with liver qi disharmony.

Call our office for a free consultation to find out how Chinese Medicine can support your health naturally! 212-894-0767

Posted by Sharon A. Wyse L.Ac.