Spring, a time for graceful awakening and unfolding
In Acupuncture & East Asian Medicine, each season is associated with a particular energy, channel, set of organs, and emotion. Within each season, its associated energy is at its peak. Besides its time within the season, it is also part of a greater cycle of transformation that flows through the year. In this progressive cycle, wood is the energy similar to that of spring. Wood is associated with the powers of growth, expansion, vision, creativity, and renewal, and the liver and gallbladder are its represented organs. Emotionally, wood is related to assertiveness and forward movement, though when stagnant or excessive it can manifest as frustration, irritability, anger, or resentment. Spring is a time where this energy is both most energized and supported, and offers an invitation to channel that rising force productively—to release stagnation, set clear intentions, and cultivate the plans and dreams that will carry us through the year.
Everywhere around us, the earth awakens as seeds push upward through the soil, trees bud and unfurl new leaves, and flowers burst into bloom, all driven by the upward surge of life. Winds move through the landscape, stirring and dispersing what has been dormant, while animals emerge with renewed activity and vitality. Likewise, the liver and gallbladder govern the smooth flow of qi and blood throughout the body, ensuring that energy rises and circulates freely, supporting vision, decision-making, and the ability to plan and act with flexibility. When this flow is obstructed, we may feel stuck, tense, or emotionally reactive. Spring is the season to harness this natural upward momentum, clearing old patterns and inviting fresh growth.
Acupuncture and herbal medicine can be very helpful to facilitate the healthy flow of this energy and its related organ system, whether it’s manifesting through emotions such as frustration or anger, headaches, tension in the neck and shoulders, menstrual irregularities, digestive stagnation and disruption, skin issues, eye strain, or feelings of being stuck, directionless or uninspired, to name just a few. Please reach out to schedule an appointment or complimentary individual consultation to learn more about how acu and herbal medicine can best support you in the seasons ahead.
With qi, Dr. Jon