Spring 2024Health and wellbeing during Wood season

Spring is a time of renewal, growth, flexibility and increased energy, and, in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), is associated with the wood element.

A holistic approach to health, TCM views the body as a balance of five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal and water.

To stay healthy, these elements – which are associated with specific organs and their related functions – need to be in harmony.

Emotionally, wood is linked to feelings of expansion, vision, and forward movement. When the wood element is in balance, our energy flows smoothly, shown by emotional stability and the ability to adapt to changes. On the flip side, an imbalance in the wood element can show as feelings of frustration, irritability, impatience, or feeling stuck.

Physical and emotional health go hand in hand, so looking after emotional wellbeing helps restore overall balance. Find healthy ways to express emotions, such as journalling, art, or talking with a trusted friend. Deep breathing exercises and meditation can also calm the mind and promote relaxation.

The wood element is associated with the liver and gallbladder organs: as nature undergoes a renewal process in spring, it is an ideal time for us to do the same with a gentle detox to support the liver’s natural functions.

Diet and nutrition align with the seasons, so choose foods that are fresh, seasonal, and mainly green. Sour-tasting foods (such as citrus fruits or cranberries), fermented foods (like pickles and sauerkraut) and apple cider vinegar are also good as they add flavour and improve your natural energy flow.

Fermented foods are wonderful for gut health, as they contain probiotics that promote digestion and boost the immune system. They enhance nutrient absorption, support a diverse gut microbiome, and produce short-chain fatty acids that keep the digestive system happy.

TCM also associates the liver with the eyes, and it is advisable to take breaks from prolonged screen time, practise eye exercises, and spend time outdoors to support eye health.

With spring being a time of increased energy and vitality, regular exercises which promote flexibility are a good choice: tai chi and qigong with their graceful moves can make you feel balanced and flexible.

If you are into yoga and Pilates, go for poses that involve twists; these bring a refreshing stretch for your body and can help your liver to detox and aid digestion. Stretches for your hips, thighs and sides are great to prevent stiffness and enable better movement.

Outdoor activities like hiking or walking are good, as being out in nature is a boost for your overall wellbeing.

Think of spring as a time to refresh your body, keep it flexible, and strike a balance between how you feel and how your body is doing.