Spring is born out of winter's quietude, allowing us to move
forward in our lives with renewed creativity, enthusiasm,
and energy for life. The Wood element is assigned to spring according to TCM's Five Element Theory. The organ and
meridian systems represented by Wood are the Liver/Gall Bladder systems. These systems work in harmony with the Kidney/Bladder systems (which are assigned to winter)
to cleanse the blood of toxins. A healthy Liver/Gall Bladder
system allows us to flourish while an overloaded Liver leads to autointoxification.
Since the color green is assigned to the Wood element, a Liver imbalance will show up on the skin when it takes on a greenish-yellow tinge around the cheeks and the eyes. This indicates that the Liver is under stress.
A Liver/Gallbladder imbalance can also be discerned by our thought patterns, particularly if we have a difficult time thinking clearly, focusing, or making decisions.
Traditionally, springtime is a time of internal cleansing which directly benefits the Liver/Gall Bladder system. Juicing and fasting are favored by many as ways to wake-up body systems from the slumber of winter. Choose to eat fresh, unproccessed fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and reduce fat and alcohol consumption. If you have concerns about your health or symptoms, please call me for an evaluation and to discuss a treatment protocol (acupuncture and non-needle approaches). Maureena Bivins, Ph.D., L.Ac. Call 818.991.2600.
