Spring is a season of change, as well as a time of cleansing, detoxing and starting fresh; and according to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it is also the time of year associated with the liver. When discussing organs as it pertains to TCM, it is important to keep in mind that we are referring to more than just the physical organ itself: we are discussing the organ system function as a whole and on an energetic level as each organ manifests physiologically, mentally, and emotionally. Acupuncture promotes natural healing by enhancing recuperative power and immunity, supporting physical and emotional health, decreasing pain, and improving overall function and wellness.
In TCM, the liver is responsible for regulating a smooth qi flow throughout the body, and when that rhythm is compromised we tend to experience physical and mental symptoms such as irritability, stress, depression, anger, poor sleep, or digestion irregularities. The liver can be associated with wind patterns: when wind enters the body, it can stir up symptoms including dizziness, headaches, neck and upper back tension, or facial paralysis. Be mindful of your body and take necessary steps to support your liver during this season of change.
Below are some Traditional Chinese Medicine tips to help nourish your liver throughout the spring:
1. Eat Your Greens
The color green is associated with the liver in TCM. Eating green foods can improve the function and help restore proper movement of the liver qi. Try implementing vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, zucchini, leafy greens such as kale, spinach, and collard greens, or fruits such as kiwi or pears.
2. Eat Sour Foods
If you are feeling irritable or agitated, try implementing something sour into your diet such as pickled greens or drinking lemon/lime water. The taste of sour is also associated with the liver, so eating foods in this category can help remove liver qi blockages.
3. Move Your Body
During the winter season, our bodies are expected to slow down, but as we transition to the spring our body begins to crave movement and expression. When we do not take time to exercise, our qi will become stagnant which can lead to feelings such as depression, irritability, sleep disturbances, headaches or upper body tension. Ever notice when you exercise that you also feel a sense of stress relief? That’s because our liver qi is flowing in a smoother state, allowing us to feel more physically and mentally relaxed!
4. Acupuncture Treatments
Acupuncture is a wonderful way to support your body during seasonal change. Treatments can help regulate a smooth flow of liver qi and promote better mood, reduced headaches and upper body tension, as well as target symptoms worsened by seasonal allergies.
Your search for “TCM near me” will bring you to Essence Acupuncture & Wellness. We are located in the heart of Alamo Heights in San Antonio and currently open for patient visits from 9:00 am. to 6:00 p.m. Monday thru Friday and Saturday 9:00 am. to 1:00 p.m. Our practitioners are also available for phone consultations and can ship herb orders if needed. Please do not hesitate to contact us at 210.236.5862 or send us a message with your questions.
