After enduring the cold winter months, spring brings us plenty of joy with its sunny days and pleasant temperatures. It's the perfect season to embrace new healthy habits and incorporate nourishing foods into our diet, which will greatly enhance our overall health and well-being. Traditional Chinese medicine has valuable secrets to making the best out of this season.Â
Traditional Chinese Medicine (or TCM for short) is a comprehensive, holistic health system that nurtures the body, mind, heart, and spirit. It is rooted in the belief that we are interconnected with nature, like tiny reflections of the world around us. By understanding our unique constitution and the current season, we strive to achieve a harmonious balance of Yin and Yang energy.
During the spring season, Traditional Chinese Medicine encourages us to let go of stagnant emotions and energies, allowing for emotional and physical detoxification. It is a time of embracing growth and renewal, where optimism radiates as the days become longer and we spend more time outdoors.
As we approach the Spring Equinox, the balance of Yin and Yang energy is felt, followed by the accumulation of Yang energy as we near the Summer Solstice. This vibrant, hot energy from the sun ignites a desire within us to be more active, to bask in the sunlight whenever possible, and to engage in physical movement.Â
The main associations for spring in Chinese medicine and Taoist philosophy include
It's time to say goodbye to those heavy, comforting foods of Winter and start incorporating lighter, refreshing foods into our diet as the weather gets warmer. However, this transition should be gradual, especially if you tend to deal with excessive mucus production or loose stools. In this case, it's best to cook your veggies and fruits thoroughly.
Try adding more young and tender plants to your meals, such as sprouts, leafy greens, and immature cereal grasses. Leafy greens like mint, dandelion, kale, and collards are also excellent choices to include in your diet.
If you're not a fan of Spring, it's likely because of those pesky seasonal allergies. The symptoms can really make your life miserable during this time of year, but there are ways to make it better. Instead of dealing with sinus infections and relying on antibiotics, you might only have to deal with a little runny nose.Â
Taking care of your gut health plays a big role in recovering from allergies. You could try taking a good probiotic to give your immune system a boost. It's also worth considering seeing a holistic health or TCM practitioner who can help you address this immune imbalance in a natural way.
If you're feeling the strain of staring at a computer or other electronic device for too long, try taking a break and heading outside to look at the trees and bushes. The green hues of the leaves can be quite calming for your eyes, and being in a 3D environment will help balance out your eye muscles.
With so much movement happening during this season, it's easy to overlook the benefits of stillness and meditation. However, it's crucial to find a balance between being active and taking time to rest, as well as between productive thinking and reflection. If traditional seated meditation isn't your thing, try walking meditation instead.
Exposure to sunlight is beneficial for your mood and helps your body store vitamin D, which is important for immune health. Vitamin D also plays a role in supporting gut health, which in turn contributes to emotional well-being.
Spring is a fantastic time to seize the opportunity and prioritize your well-being by embracing new habits that promote fitness and good health. By following the traditional Chinese medicine tips mentioned earlier, you can fully embrace the joys of this season.
