Welcome to Spring, the Wood Season in Traditional Chinese Medicine
In TCM, Spring is all about rebirth as we welcome a new cycle of growth. Within every seed resides a plan; a genetic blueprint that maps out its destiny from sprout to tree. Spring is the season of the Wood Element, the Planner amongst the fab five. They both thrive on change and transformation.
But growth can be frustrating. When tiny shoots break through the cold soil, they fight a difficult upward battle. But they’re undeterred, refusing to back down; every mighty oak begins as an acorn.
Wood puts our desires into action and welcomes abundance into our lives. This is the season to embrace our potential and initiate a plan so we may watch our dreams bloom into reality
The Liver or Wood Element is known as the Planner or General amongst the organs.
Physiologically it is responsible for:
Storing Blood
Ensuring the Smooth Flow of Qi
Controlling the Sinews
Manifesting in the Nails
Opening into the Eyes
Controlling Tears
Out of these qualities, I would argue possessing a smooth flow of Qi is crucial. Smooth Liver Qi is a TCM concept that manifests in our body’s physiology and mental state. Stagnancy can be an impairment.
The General can only manifest actionable plans if the Liver Qi is moving without impediment. A fluid, healthy Liver can help us stay the course, giving our lives a sense of direction. If that tiny sprout gets frustrated and gives up, it’ll never see the light of day
The Liver is such a powerful organ, when its Qi gets stuck, it can sabotage all the other organs and their functions.
Clinically, here’s the Top 5 manifestations I see:
PMS
Neck and shoulder tension
Irritability/Frustration
Depression
Distention/bloating in the chest or abdomen
Honestly, it’s so easy to stagnate our Liver Qi; day-to-day stress, eating certain foods, not exercising enough, just to name a few. During a treatment, your practitioner might use words like disperse, relax, circulate or balance. We want your Qi to flow and release whatever’s holding it back. We can achieved this by using acupuncture, Chinese herbal medicine, cupping or gua sha.
If you suspect that your Liver Qi might not be flowing optimally, spring would be a great time to get assessed by your friendly neighbourhood acupuncturist or TCMP.