Seasonal Tips for Spring
Spring is the time of renewal and growth. Plants and flowers are sprouting and flowering and animals are preparing for new offspring. The earth is warming up and the days are getting longer. According to Chinese medicine, spring is associated with the LIVER and GALLBLADDER.
If you have an imbalance in the liver or gallbladder your symptoms will be exaggerated at this time.
Signs and symptoms of liver and gallbladder imbalance:
- Seasonal Allergies
- Easily irritated, frustrated, angry, impatient
- Swollen or tender breasts / Fibrocystic breast disease
- Headaches/Migraines
- Ringing in the ears/Dizziness
- Gallstones & Abdominal pain/Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Tips to help your liver and gallbladder:
- Movement & Stretch: Frustration comes when we are stuck. Exercise and fresh air brings in oxygen which helps with circulation and regeneration of the liver. The liver governs the tendons. Therefore, stretch 10-15 minutes every day.
- Eat your Greens!: Eat plenty of dark, leafy greens such as: kale, chard, arugula, spinach, cilantro, parsley. Also have lots of broccoli, cabbage, brussel sprouts, and cauliflower.
- Think Sour: Drink hot water and lemon or apple cider vinegar and honey in the morning. Add sour kraut or fermented foods such as miso to your diet.
- Emotions: Practice compassion. Often, when we are angry we forget to put ourselves in other people’s shoes. Step back, take a deep breath and attempt to understand. Sometimes this understanding means having compassion for yourself!
Acupuncture is a great way to stimulate the liver and gallbladder. Acupuncture helps to control pain, reduces swelling and inflammation and calms the mind.