Liver & Springtime
Nourishing the Liver in Spring: A Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), each season is associated with specific organs and elements. Spring is the season of renewal and growth, and it is closely linked to the liver and the wood element. The liver is responsible for the smooth flow of qi (energy) and blood throughout the body, and it plays a vital role in our emotional well-being. According to TCM, a healthy liver supports our ability to adapt to change and maintain a positive outlook on life. A stagnation or unbalanced liver will often cause feelings of irritability, frustration and anger.
In TCM, spring is the ideal time to nourish and support the liver. A well-balanced diet that includes fresh, seasonal produce, whole grains, and lean proteins is essential for liver health. Some liver-friendly foods to incorporate into your diet during spring include leafy greens, beets, artichokes, and green tea. It's also important to reduce or eliminate processed foods, sugar, and excessive alcohol consumption, as these can contribute to liver congestion and stagnation.
As a practitioner of Chi Nei Tsang, a modality that supports the liver and overall well-being, I have learned various qigong exercises from that can help nourish and support the liver during spring.
One simple and effective qigong exercise for liver health is the "Liver Cleansing Exercise" or "Xin Jia" from the Six Healing Sounds practice.
To perform this exercise, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, knees slightly bent, and place your hands on your lower ribcage, with your palms facing your body. Inhale deeply through your nose and visualize fresh, cleansing energy entering your liver. As you exhale, make a "shhh" sound and imagine releasing stagnant energy and any negative emotions from your liver. Repeat this exercise for a few minutes each day to help release stagnant liver energy and promote the smooth flow of qi.
If you are curious how Chi Nei Tsang can support you body this spring, I hope you take time to explore what this modality has to offer!
Looking forward to seeing you,
Samantha Mertler
Sources:
Maciocia, Giovanni. "The Foundations of Chinese Medicine: A Comprehensive Text." Elsevier Health Sciences, 2015. [watch] [read]
Pitchford, Paul. "Healing with Whole Foods: Asian Traditions and Modern Nutrition." North Atlantic Books, 2002. [read]
Chia, Mantak. "Taoist Ways to Transform Stress into Vitality: The Inner Smile * Six Healing Sounds." Healing Tao Books, 1989. [read]
Yang, Jwing-Ming. "Qigong for Health & Martial Arts: Exercises and Meditation." YMAA Publication Center, 1998. [read]