Kit Li
Today is March 19th, Spring will arrive in the UK in 11 days, which means clocks will go forward again, however, on the other side of the world, Spring had already begun on the 3rd of February, according to the Lunar Chinese Calendar.*
In the Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon, it emphasises that the changes of the four seasons with the Five Element theory have a significant impact on our human life, well-being, and the flow of Qi.
In terms of the nature of Yin and Yang, Spring (Liver) and Summer (Heart) represent Yang, the characteristics of Spring is growth, renewal and expanding, cultivating yang energy to engaging in activities that promote growth and movements; Summer continues to nourish our yang energy at its peak, warmth and activities.
Also, the late Summer (Spleen), it is considered as a transitional season, it balances both Yin and Yang; the characteristics of the late Summer is transformation and stability.
Whereas, Autumn (Lungs) and Winter (Kidneys) represent Yin, due to the fact that, the characteristics of Autumn is cooling down, contraction and dryness, together with conserve yang energy and prepare for the coming winter; Winter is stillness, conservation and storage, focus on conserving yin energy, resting, and protecting the body from the cold.
Just bear in mind, the changes of yin and yang with the changes of four seasons is an endless cycle of life, thereby, it never ceases, for instance, if too much yin energy is being overused in Winter, then tiredness or illnesses in Spring is unavoidable because your body is already exhausted and not well-prepared for the upcoming season - Spring.
For that reason, what should we do to promote our Yang energy and support our liver function in order to welcoming the Spring season?
'During Spring, we should grasp the opportunity presented by the warm Spring sun to get our energy moving, which helps clear away the leftover effects of winter, for instance, sleep late (before 11pm)* and get up early, walking in the gardens or woods to regain the Yang-Qi.' according to the Yellow Emperor's Inner Canon.
In addition, Spring is associated with the liver, which governs emotions, consequently, practicing Tai Chi*, Qigong, or light stretching in the morning to encourage the smooth flow of Qi and prevent stagnation; on the other hand, expressing creativity, listening to the music that nourishes your liver*, and practicing mindfulness can help maintain balance.
What about foods that help promote our Yang energy and support liver function? Green leafy vegetables, leeks, ginger, garlic, and sprouted grains etc, the cooking methods should be light, avoid eating raw, cold, greasy, or overly spicy and strongly flavoured foods. How about some healthy teas? I will share some tips on the healthy tea tomorrow. (keep an eye on my post!)
to be continued.....
Links:
Lunar Chinese Calendar:
https://www.yourchineseastrology.com/calendar/24-solar-terms.htm
Traditional Chinese Organ Body Clock:
https://images.app.goo.gl/EwARiwticQambQ2J9
Chen Village School:
https://www.taijicircle.com/about
Music for nourishing the Liver (GuQin):
https://youtu.be/L3_zYsp5ZyQ?si=9IBml4VrG_J_EftH
