Aligning with the Cycles of Nature: Health and Wellbeing in the Spring

When we tune into the energy of Spring, it is that of blossoming, of rebirth. Still, as we plant our seeds, we need to tend to the soil, integrating and composting the lessons of the past winter season, and letting go of any stuck or stagnant energy. During the Spring, we gather and cultivate energy and inspiration for the rest of the year, so approaching the season with clarity, alignment and mindfulness sets the foundation for a truly abundant and joyful year ahead. We need to make sure that we are well watered, well nourished, with a strong foundation so that as we move into the cycles of peak growth, we have everything that we need to flourish and thrive!

In Five Element theory (an aspect of Traditional Chinese Medicine), Spring is dominated by the element of Wood. The other Elements being Fire, Earth, Metal and Water, each with their own particular associations and roles in maintaining balance within all beings and environments. All of the elements interact with and depend on one another. When we understand the associations, and particularly the seasons and practices to support each of these elements, we find a logical and powerful way to harness the natural cycles to optimize our health and wellbeing.

Now each element is associated with a stage in development, and not surprising, Spring is associated with birth. Other associations are the color GREEN, the taste of BITTER. The weather element of Spring is WIND, which is often what we find as this is how seeds spread, and it is the energy that moves that is stuck and ready to become more light.

The wood element is associated with the LIVER and the GALLBLADDER, the organs responsible for the smooth flow of Qi in the body. These organs are related to our ability to absorb and utilize nutrients and energy from our foods, as well as process our emotional experiences. The GallBladder is related to courage and willpower, so as we move into the next phase of the year and our lives, supporting proper flow and function is helpful to manifest all that we are wanting. Strong emotions can affect the flow of Qi, and the Liver is particularly susceptible to such strong emotions, especially ANGER. So one of the works of the Spring is to process and release any stuck anger or resentment.

I would also add the importance of addressing the LYMPHATIC SYSTEM, and MICROBIOME during this time. During the winter we tend to accumulate fluids, weight, and our systems slow and naturally become more sluggish. So in order to support the free flow of energy and nutrients, to be able to deliver them to the tissues and remove any waste in the way, tending to the lymph is vital. Our Microbiome, or our inner terrain is our soil, the foundation with which we grow all things. So we benefit from some additional tending to our biome, just like how a garden needs regular soil tending to support the prosperity and health of the growing plants.