As the days lengthen and the air warms, Spring unfurls its vibrant tapestry. This season, marked by renewal and rejuvenation, invites us to shed the winter’s cocoon and embrace the promise of growth.
In the Chinese lunar calendar, Spring commences with the first solar term on February 4. Over the past few weeks, winds of change have swept through the atmosphere, even bringing snow. Yet, this snow is different from the winter’s icy mantle. It melts swiftly, laden with moisture, and weighs down tree branches, bending them under the weight of nascent buds.
Late Winter ignites an energetic surge that heralds Spring’s arrival. Leaf buds emerge, birds serenade the dawn, and bulbs burst forth in colorful bloom. During winter, life seems dormant—trees appear lifeless—but they resurge each year, a testament to nature’s resilience. What a promise!
From the lens of Chinese Medicine, this transition shifts from the Water element of Winter to the Wood element of Spring. Winter embodies yin—cold, still, and veiled in darkness—while Spring exudes yang energy—warm, lively, and invigorating. Seeds, nestled underground during Winter, now push upward, reaching for the sun through the soil.
Yet, Spring’s movement isn’t without challenges. Allergies arise from pollen’s dance, and itchy, red eyes become a common complaint. As the world awakens, so does our urge to clear stagnation. Spring beckons us to declutter our lives, rearrange our spaces, and tackle long-delayed tasks. However, if Wood energy stagnates, frustration and indecision may follow.
Metaphorically, Spring aligns with the Liver and Gallbladder. These organs surge with vitality, urging emotional progress. So, as blossoms unfold and daylight lingers, let Spring’s energy propel you toward renewal and balance.
To take advantage of this energetic shift:
Move the qi and blood with some breathwork or light exercise such as qigong or yoga.
Eat seasonal foods such as asparagus, broccoli, leeks, carrots, dark leafy greens, cherries, citrus, green tea, and celery.
The most healing spring foods
Dandelion
Watercress
Baby grens
Chard
Sprouts
Basil
Beets
Black sesame
Cardamom
Carrots
Celery
Get outside.
Tune into your emotions.
Harmonize with acupuncture.
Clean your house and rearrange furniture.
Keep your neck covered with a light scarf or high collar.
Try something new.
Work on creative projects.
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