chūn shān rú xiào • "Mountains in spring look like a smile."

August 30, 2024

Northern China's ridgelines usually look rugged and stark in the winter but are smoothed and decorated with new leaves and flowers in the early spring.

The seasons have a direct effect on our health, affecting the balance of the elements inside each one of us. In TCM, to maintain harmony and prevent illness, we are encouraged to adapt our lifestyle according to the seasons.

Spring is the season for rebirth, renewal and re-growth. It is when we move from the darkness of winter (the yin part of the year) into the light (the yang part of the year).

As we come out of hibernation, Spring practices might revolve around active movement, and breathwork that invigorates circulation and warmth.

Foods can start to be a little lighter to energise the body and mind.

Ancient healing systems see Spring as an important time to address the health of the mind, body, and spirit. Chinese medicine relies on certain protocols and recommendations to balance the Wood element.

Element: Wood

Wood elements refers to living and growing organisms such as trees, flowers, plants as well as the human body. It also symbolises life and the renewal of life.

Organs: Liver & Gallbladder

The liver is the center for addressing toxins and is essential for preparing nutrients as they are transported through the bloodstream. A strong and healthy liver allows Qi to move smoothly through the body. The gallbladder helps digest fats while also eliminating certain toxins.

Emotion: Anger

In TCM, anger represents resentment and frustration. Blood that is too rich (imbalanced) is believed to case one to feel anger and irritability which can affect the liver.

Taste: sour

In TCM the sour flavour can calm the body and is tied to the liver helping with any imbalances

Nature: Yang

Yang is seen as energetic, active and the force that is responsible for expansion and growth.

Colour: Green

This is the colour of nature in spring and also reflects the plants, leave and sprouts that are emerging during the season. It is also associated with growth, balance, calm, harmony and sensitivity in Chinese culture.

Rituals I am implementing this Spring:

• Diving back into regular meditation

• Breathwork

• Planning family activities with the kids for their Spring break (baking, spring cleaning, arts and crafts)

• Infrared sauna

• A Kitchari cleanse

• More reading and less screen time before bed

• Early bed time and early rises which was much harder in winter

Some rituals you might be interested in that we can support you with:

EAT

Our Golden Kitchari: Spring is a perfect time for a little cleanse. You can cook a batch and eat this throughout the day to give your digestive system a little rest whilst still remaining warm and nourished.