Embracing Spring Moving Towards Summer…
Embracing the Transition from Spring to Summer: A TCM and Anatomical Perspective
As the days grow warmer and longer, we find ourselves naturally drawn to spending more time outdoors and engaging in physical activities. The transition from spring to summer brings not only a shift in the energetic landscape from a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective but also an anatomical one. It's essential to understand how to care for our bodies during this time of increased activity and ensure that we're supporting our well-being on all levels.
From a TCM standpoint, we move from the Liver organ system, associated with spring, to the Heart organ system, connected with summer (1). To support this transition, focus on practices that balance Liver and Heart energies, such as a balanced diet, gentle exercises like Tai Chi and Qigong, and stress management techniques.
According to TCM expert Giovanni Maciocia, one way to nourish the Liver and Heart during this transition is through meditation and deep breathing exercises, as they help to calm the mind and regulate the flow of Qi (2). Another suggestion is to incorporate foods that are cooling and soothing, such as leafy greens, cucumber, and watermelon, which can help to balance the body's energies (1).
In addition to these practices, Earth Qigong can be beneficial during this transitional period. This Qigong practice focuses on grounding energy and strengthening the connection between our bodies and the earth. It can help to balance the Liver and Heart energies, as well as support the Spleen, which plays a crucial role in TCM. Here is a simple Earth Qigong practice you can try:
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and arms relaxed at your sides.
Inhale deeply, raising your arms overhead, palms facing up.
As you exhale, slowly lower your arms back to your sides, palms facing down.
Repeat this movement for several breaths, visualizing energy flowing from the earth through your feet and up into your body as you inhale, and then releasing any stagnant energy back into the earth as you exhale.
This practice can be particularly helpful for Chi Nei Tsang practitioners and their clients, as it supports the body's energetic balance and facilitates the release of stagnant energy and emotions stored in the internal organs.
On an anatomical level, increased physical activity during the warmer months requires us to pay extra attention to our bodies, ensuring that we're properly preparing for and recovering from exercise. Here are some tips to help you care for your body during this time:
Warm-up: According to the American College of Sports Medicine, before engaging in any physical activity, take the time to warm up your muscles and joints through gentle dynamic stretching and movement. This can help prevent injury and improve overall performance (3).
Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial during the warmer months, especially when engaging in outdoor activities. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, and consider adding electrolytes during prolonged or intense exercise (4).
Cool down and stretch: After your activity, spend some time cooling down and performing static stretches to help your muscles recover and maintain flexibility. Holding each stretch for 15-30 seconds can help increase flexibility and prevent muscle tightness (3).
Listen to your body: Pay attention to your body's signals and avoid pushing yourself too hard, especially during the initial weeks of increased activity. Gradually build up the intensity and duration of your workouts to allow your body to adapt safely.
Rest and recovery: Incorporate rest days into your exercise routine, and consider scheduling regular massages or Chi Nei Tsang sessions to support muscle recovery and overall well-being.
By taking a holistic approach to your health and well-being, combining TCM principles with anatomical knowledge, you can safely and effectively navigate the transition from spring to summer. This will allow you to enjoy the many benefits of increased physical activity while minimizing the risk of injury and maintaining balance within your body.
Thanks for dropping by and learning some more about Qigong and how to take care of your body during this transition period!
I look forward to seeing you on my table!
Samantha Mertler RMT
Sources:
Maciocia, G. (2015). The Foundations of Chinese Medicine: A Comprehensive Text. Elsevier Health Sciences. [watch] [read]
Maciocia, G. (2011). The Practice of Chinese Medicine: The Treatment of Diseases with Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs. Elsevier Health Sciences. [read]
American College of Sports Medicine. (2018). ACSM's Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription. Wolters Kluwer. [read]
Sawka, M. N., Cheuvront, S. N., & Kenefick, R. W. (2015). Hypohydration and Human Performance: Impact of Environment and Physiological Mechanisms. Sports Medicine, 45(S1), 51-60. [read