Welcome to Spring: A Season of Renewal and Growth

Spring is closely associated with the element of Wood, symbolising growth and renewal. The energy of Spring is abundant and ready to be harnessed, making it an excellent time to focus and make changes in your health, well-being, and fertility. Let’s explore how you can make the most of this vibrant season.

Spring naturally inspires a desire to clean up our diet and lifestyle. As the body starts to heat up after winter, it’s important to fuel it with the right foods. While lighter meals are suitable for Spring, avoid going too light or cold in your dietary choices. Some more heavier grains and root vegetables help keep you grounded as support the earth element. Oils are also important as they help nourish and lubricate the body that helps keep away aches and pains. Some TCM dietary advice for Spring. 

• Include More Greens: Vegetables like broccoli, spinach, kale, and spring onions are excellent for supporting your body’s energy.
• Warm, Nourishing Meals: Steamed and stir-fried dishes provide warmth without being heavy. A cooked salad or health bowl is perfect for Spring.
• Mind Your Smoothies: While smoothies are popular, they can be too cooling for Spring. If you must have one, add warming spices like ginger and cardamom to support digestion.
• Healthy Fats: Good oils, such as avocado, walnut oil, and flaxseed oil, are essential for keeping your muscles and joints lubricated as your body becomes more active.
• Avoid Heavy Winter Foods: Foods like osso buco, which are rich and greasy, are better suited to winter. Let them go to embrace the dynamic energy of Spring.

Spring is the perfect time to shake off the sluggishness of winter and get moving. The season’s energy is highly motivating, encouraging more physical activity and social interaction.

• Yoga and Stretching: These activities are ideal for easing the tension that can build up in the tendons during Spring, which is known as the “tendon season” in Chinese medicine.
• Outdoor Activities: Take advantage of the warmer weather by going for long walks, cycling, or engaging in hobbies that inspire you.
• Socialising: Spring often brings an increased desire to socialise. Go with it! Filling your diary with social events and exercise dates can help you feel more connected and energised.

While Spring is energising, it can also bring a certain restlessness or emotional turbulence. Emotions like frustration and anger may surface more easily during this time. The Liver, which governs the tendons and nervous system in Chinese medicine, can become overactive, leading to feelings of tightness both physically and emotionally.

• Balance Your Emotions: Practice calming activities such as yoga, meditation, or simply allowing yourself some downtime to avoid feeling too ungrounded or hyperactive.
• Be Proactive: Address any lingering emotional or health issues with the help of professionals
• Nourish yourself: make sure to maintain a nourishing diet that supports your emotional well-being.

Spring is synonymous with cleaning, not just in our homes but in our bodies and minds. It’s the perfect time to clear out old energy and make space for the new.

• Declutter Your Environment: Clean your house, body, and cupboards to release stagnant energy.
• Tie Up Loose Ends: Use this time to complete tasks like doing your taxes or finishing projects, allowing for a fresh start.