March 19, 2025

Dear Patients and Friends,

 

Happy Spring again. What a nice day!

 

I will be out of the office Thurs March 28th thru Mon the 31st. I'll be attending an herbal seminar in the DC area.  You can always call or text for appointments, but you can also use the https://www.aikiacupuncture.janeapp.com  site as well.

 

Here's my almost annual caution about the TCM Liver in Spring

 

I actually googled the below and have used the AI summary which I then edited to make my own and use a professional eye to edit.

 

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), spring is associated with the liver and the Wood element, emphasizing renewal, growth, and detoxification. This is a time to focus on supporting liver function, promoting emotional well-being, and encouraging movement. Here's a more detailed look at the TCM perspective on spring and the liver:

• Spring and the Liver:In TCM, spring is seen as a time of new beginnings and outward expression, mirroring the liver's role in facilitating the flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood throughout the body. 
• Liver Functions in TCM:The liver is responsible for various functions, including:
  • Blood circulation: Ensuring the smooth flow of blood and its storage. 
  • Qi regulation: Maintaining the proper flow of Qi throughout the body. 
  • Emotional well-being: The liver is linked to emotional stability, and its function can be affected by emotional stress. 
  • This function is sometimes said like this "The Liver is responisble for the "smooth flow of emotions"
  • Detoxification: The liver plays a crucial role in filtering toxins from the body. 
  • That is more of a modern idea.
  • Vision: The liver is associated with clear vision. 
  • Sinews and Tendons: The liver governs the sinews and tendons, promoting flexibility and movement. 
• Springtime Practices for Liver Support:
  • Diet: Consume light, fresh, green-colored foods to support the liver's function. (This is more appropriate when it's the warm part of Spring. Less so on the days it seems like it is still winter. If you have robust energy and are on the warmer side, fine. But if you're digestion is easily challenged or you're on the cold side, then be cautious with cold or raw or green vegetables unless cooked.)
    • Movement: Engage in gentle exercise or stretching to stimulate the liver's pathways and promote the flow of Qi. 
    • Emotional well-being: Practice mindfulness, meditation, or other techniques to manage stress and promote emotional balance. 
    • Rest: Prioritize sleep, as the liver cleanses and repairs during sleep, especially between 1 am and 3 am. 
    • Acupuncture: Consider acupuncture treatments to support liver function and promote overall well-being. 
  • Foods to Support the Liver in Spring:
    • Fresh, leafy greens 
    • Sprouted foods 
    • Sour-tasting foods (e.g., pickled vegetables) 
    • Goji and chrysanthemum tea 
  • Foods to Avoid:
    • Refined carbs and sugars 
    • Processed foods 
    • Caffeine and alcohol 
  • Emotions:Anger and frustration can negatively impact the liver's function, so it's important to address these emotions and find healthy ways to express them. 
  •  
  • So on second read some of these things sound more like modern, common sense health ideas. But they are good ideas.