Embracing Spring: Growth, movement, & renewal through Qigong and Chinese Medicine.

As the days grow longer and nature begins to bloom, we find ourselves transitioning into the vibrant and awakening season of spring. In Chinese medicine, spring is a time of renewal, movement and growth. Both within the natural world and within ourselves. It's a season that invites us to stretch out, like the limbs and roots of a tree, breathe deeply, and harmonize the powerful energy of new beginnings.

The Element of Spring: Wood

In the Five Element theory of Chinese medicine, spring is associated with the wood element. Wood represents growth, flexibility, creativity, and vision. Just as trees push through the earth and reach for the sky, we, too, are encouraged to expand and move forward. It's a time to let go of the inwardness of winter and align with upward moving energy.

The Liver and Gallbladder organs are linked to the Wood element. These organs are responsible for smooth flow of Qi (energy) and emotions in the body. When balanced, we experience clarity, patience, and purpose. When out of balance, we may feel frustrated, irritable, and stuck.

Movement & Creativity through Qigong:

Spring is the perfect time to reignite your Qigong practice or begin a new one. Qigong movements are designed to support the liver and gallbladder channels by unblocking stagnant energy, increasing circulation, and cultivating strength and resiliency.

Movements that involve twisting, side bending, or flowing arms movements help stimulate the liver meridian and bring balance to the wood element. Practicing Qigong outdoors, surrounded by blooming life of spring, deepens our connection to the season and rejuvenates our energy.

Spring also nurtures creative energy. As nature expresses itself in flowers, birdsong, and fresh colors, we are called to express ourselves creatively through movement, art, journaling, meditation, or planting something new.

Nourishing the Body: Spring Foods.

In spring we shift from heavier, warming foods of winter to lighter, cleansing, and more vibrant choices that align with the livers detoxifying role. According to Chinese dietary therapy, spring is a time to:

Embrace greens: Dandelion greens, kale, spinach, and sprouts help cleanse the liver.

Add sour flavors: Lemon, vinegar, pickled vegetables help stimulate liver function.

Enjoy seasonal herbs: Mint, basil, and cilantro support digestion and detoxification.

Drinking warm water with lemon: Drinking warm lemon water in the morning can gently awaken the digestive system and support the body's natural cleansing process.

Align with Natures Cycles: Spring is natures way of reminding us to awaken, stretch, and step forward. It's an ideal time to set intentions, plan new projects, and make space for growth, both physically and emotionally.

Some ways of honoring the spring season include:

• Waking up earlier to enjoy the morning light.

• Spending time in nature- Walk barefoot on grass, soil, or sand for at least one minute. Breath fresh air, listen to the birds, walk amongst trees, and spend some time near water, such as lakes, rivers, oceans, or streams.

• Cleansing your space- A physical spring cleaning can reflect and inspire you. with a cleaner organized space, your mind will feel clearer and more creative.

• Qigong- Meditation in Motion- Move your body the way nature intended. The body enjoys movement and keeps the body healthy. Even spending a few minutes a day doing a Qigong practice is beneficial.

This spring give yourself the gift of movement, clarity, and renewal. Whether you're tending to a garden, flowing through Qigong, going for a nature walk, or simply stepping outside to breathe in the season- let yourself be inspired by the vitality of life returning all around you!

Join me for a class this season as we connect to the wood element, nourish our liver energy, and grow together in body, heart, and mind.

With love and QI,

Joellene Skoog