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OPTIMIZE YOUR HEALTH THIS SPRING


According to Chinese Medicine, health and longevity are supported by living in harmony with our environment. As the seasons change, so do our bodies’ needs. We can attune to these changes by adjusting our diet and lifestyle.

While winter was a time for rest and conservation of energy, spring involves upward and expansive movement. Like the trees’ sap rising and green leaves unfurling, the dormant energy in our bodies awakens and transforms into a more active form.

The organ associated with Spring is the Liver, which is in charge of regulating a smooth flow of Qi (vital energy) throughout the body. When the Liver energy isn’t flowing properly, we are prone to sluggish digestion, joint pain, muscle strains, headaches, allergies and eye problems.

We're also more susceptible to anger, the emotion of the Liver, as well as frustration, irritability, and other emotional imbalances.


Here are some simple shifts to support the Liver and optimize your health this Spring:

  • GET OUTDOORS: Activities in nature move Liver Qi, and will help you feel alive and refreshed! Take a brisk walk every day to get your energy flowing, open your pores, and sweat out toxins.


  • MOVE FOR FLEXIBILITY: Gentle stretching supports the Liver’s job to keep joints and tendons healthy. Incorporate a morning or evening stretch into your routine, or try yoga or Qi Gong.


  • DO A GENTLE CLEANSE: Spring is the perfect time for a cleanse. Support the Liver by drinking lots of water and herbal tea, and eating simple, seasonal and whole foods. I have plenty of suggestions for an optimal cleanse, contact me for additional support.


  • EAT YOUR GREENS: Green is the color of the Liver meridian and Spring is full of seasonal green foods to enjoy: leafy greens, asparagus, parsley, and broccoli are filled with immune supporting antioxidants that help the Liver gently rid the body of toxins.


  • SPRING AND SOUR: Each season is associated with a certain flavor, and sour stimulates Liver Qi. Squeeze lemon and lime into your water, splash apple cider vinegar on your salad, and eat other sour foods like plums, grapefruit, plain yogurt and fermented vegetables to give your Liver a boost.


  • DRINK HERBAL TEA: Dandelion, peppermint, nettles or milk thistle tea protect and cleanse the Liver, and are natural and effective remedies for allergies and chronic sinusitis.


  • GET ACUPUNCTURE: Acupuncture can help treat common spring complaints such as allergies, fatigue, poor digestion, stress and anger, and can compliment any cleanse or weight-loss regime.

Follow these cues, listen to your body’s needs, and you will be in great shape this spring!

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