04/09/2025
Springtime in Chinese Medicine: Renewal, Growth, and the Wood Element
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), spring is a season of renewal, growth, and transformation. Just as nature awakens after the stillness of winter, our bodies, minds, and energy (Qi) also shift into a more dynamic state. Understanding spring’s influence on health through the lens of TCM can help us align with the season and promote overall well-being.
Spring and the Wood Element
Each season in TCM is associated with one of the Five Elements, and spring corresponds to Wood. The Wood element represents growth, expansion, flexibility, and vision—much like the trees and plants that sprout new leaves and reach toward the sky.
The organs linked to the Wood element are the Liver (Gan) and Gallbladder (Dan), which are responsible for the smooth flow of Qi and blood. When the Liver Qi flows freely, we feel energized, clear-headed, and emotionally balanced. However, if Liver Qi stagnates, we may experience symptoms like:
Irritability, frustration, or mood swings
Headaches or migraines
Digestive issues (such as bloating, constipation or indigestion)
Muscle tension, especially in the neck and shoulders
Fatigue or a feeling of being "stuck"
By supporting the Liver and Gallbladder, we can harmonize with the energy of spring and feel more vibrant.
Springtime Practices for Health and Balance
Eat Light, Green, and Fresh Foods
Spring is the time to cleanse and refresh the body, just as nature sheds the old and brings in the new. Incorporate foods that support the Liver, such as:
Leafy greens (spinach, kale, chard, dandelion greens, lettuces)
Sour foods (lemon, vinegar, pickled vegetables)
Sprouts and young plants (bean sprouts, microgreens)
Lightly cooked or raw vegetables for an energetic lift
Plant based proteins: brown rice, lentils, beans and quinoa
Clean and lean animal proteins: turkey, chicken and fish
Avoid: heavy, greasy, or overly rich foods, which can burden the Liver
Move and Stretch
Because the Wood element is associated with flexibility, movement is essential in spring. Activities like tai chi, qigong, yoga, dancing, biking, hiking and brisks walks help circulate Qi and release tension. Stretching the body—especially the sides of the torso, where the Liver meridian runs—can help prevent stiffness and stagnation.
Detoxify and Cleanse
Spring is a natural time for detoxification. In TCM, this doesn’t mean extreme fasting, but rather gentle ways to support the body's natural cleansing processes:
Drink warm lemon water in the morning
Eat fiber-rich foods to support digestion
Get adequate rest to allow the body to renew itself
Come in to start a 10 day or 28 day cleanse with one of our Practitioners!
Embrace Emotional Renewal
The Liver is closely tied to emotions, especially anger and frustration. Spring is a great time to release pent-up emotions and cultivate patience, kindness, and flexibility. Journaling, meditation, deep breathing, acupuncture, massage and spending time outdoors can all help smooth emotional flow.
Align with Nature’s Rhythm
Wake up earlier with the rising sun, spend time outside, and soak in the fresh air. The upward and outward energy of spring encourages creativity, planning, and new beginnings. Use this time to set intentions, start projects, and embrace change.
🌿 🌿 🌿 🌿 🌿 🌿 🌿 🌿 🌿 🌿 🌿 🌿 🌿 🌿 🌿🌿 🌿 🌿
We have been growing as Practitioners :
Jessica Piazza is getting Certified in a Neuroscience based Acupuncture system called Neuropuncture. Neuropuncture can help regulate your nervous system, modulate neurotransmitters, and rehabilitate damaged nerves and brain structures. It’s great for all neurological conditions, sleep, mood, addiction, pain and internal health as well.
Deena Stapelton was awarded Best Local Acupuncturist in the North Bay Bohemian and in the Press Democrat! She is also working on finishing up her Doctorate in Chinese Medicine. She is having much success, and much reward, in treating Orthopedic conditions and pain.
Saiko Oki has been extensively studying a cutting edge Electro-acupuncture system on the ear! She is getting great results helping resolve autonomic nervous system imbalances and creating greater balance throughout the body, mind and spirit.
Lydie Hu has been offering nurturing, relaxing and supportive acupuncture and bodywork combinations to our patients. Clients appreciate her gentle and loving approach, everyone leaves here feeling better!
As the world around us blossoms, so too can our energy, health, and spirit. If it's been awhile since you have had acupuncture consider a “Spring Tune- Up” 🌿✨
To book an Appointment:
https://eastwestnaturalmedicine.janeapp.com/
or call our office (707) 978-4293
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