Flourishing and Nourishing in Spring
As the northern hemisphere celebrates the arrival of Spring, ancient Chinese wisdom reminds us to be cautious while the seasons shift. Shedding our warm layers of Winter too quickly can lead to illness or imbalance. Even as the southern climates begin to have some hot and sunshine-filled days, it is wise to carry a scarf or hooded jacket to guard against the quick, changeable winds.
Living with nature in mind can help us find better health. As the colder temperatures of Winter recede, our diet can be lighter and contain less of the heavy, hearty soups and stews. Instead, we can include more greens and fruits. In fact, consuming dark green vegetables with a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar can mildly stimulating the digestive process and perk up the liver function. The liver and gallbladder organ systems are prominent in Spring according to the classics of Chinese medicine. Other helpful foods/herbs to include are licorice, peppermint, chamomile, fennel, figs, dates, green apples, raw honey, strawberries, beets, sweet potatoes, green peas, lentils, and almonds.
While the external environment is sprouting and becoming more active, our outward physical activity can follow nature’s example. Spring is a good time for our bodies to stretch and be a little more flexible. The extra activity can help improve the overall circulation and clear the head. This also brightens the mood and soothes the emotions which can be more erratic during the seasonal shift. Keep in mind though, that the exercise should not be exhausting or overly strenuous. The body should feel relaxed and rejuvenated as a result. For those that normally enjoy and focus on the cardiovascular work or weight lifting, try some additional tai chi or yoga.
For many, taking a brisk walk to admire the blooming flowers will be a very pleasant experience. Unfortunately for some, the bursting pollen can cause respiratory irritation. If seasonal allergies are a bother for you, acupuncture and herbal medicine might also be helpful to reduce symptoms and restore balance. Even when not bothered by allergies however, the eyes can be extra sensitive during this season, so it is best to be cautious and minimize potential eye strain from computer use or excessive book reading. Regular acupressure massage done by simply pressing and pulling the side of the index finger/knuckle across the eyebrows, across the cheekbones, around the temples, the front hairline, and with the thumbs at the back of the neck can be used at home to improve the clarity of the head and eyes. Practicing this type of acupressure while enjoying a steamy mug of peppermint and chrysanthemum tea is a great recipe for finding harmony in the season.
Warm wishes for a happy, healthy Spring!
