A Chinese Medicine Guide to Transitioning into Spring

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is an ancient system of medicine grounded in

thousands of years of clinical practice and refinement. Within this framework, each

season reflects a unique energetic shift in both nature and the human body.

Spring is characterized by energy that rises upward and expands outward. It is

associated with the Wood element and the Liver organ system, which governs growth,

flexibility, and the smooth flow of Qi. This can be seen in nature as flowers start to push

up out of the ground and the weather gets warmer and windier.

The primary role of the Liver is the ensure the free flow of Qi throughout the body. When

this flow is balanced within us, the transition to spring manifests as renewed energy,

creativity, and motivation.

Signs of imbalance during seasonal transition

People often struggle with adjusting to the new season and report feeling “off” during

this time. Other signs include increased irritability, headaches, and neck stiffness. These

symptoms are localized to the upper part of the body because, as mentioned above,

this is the time of upward movement. These symptoms often show up when the Liver Qi

needs support in flowing freely or when it is not properly grounded in the body. Luckily,

you don’t have to suffer through this season! Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine

are here to help.

How to Support your Body in Spring

1. Eat for the season: In spring, we naturally crave lighter, fresher foods over hearty

soups and slow cooked meals enjoyed in winter. Dark leafy green foods and

lightly cooked or steamed veggies help the Liver system function optimally. Try to

reduce heavy, greasy, and highly processed foods.

2. Move your body: Gently reintroducing movement into your routine after a slower

winter can help the body acclimate to the change in environment. Try a 10-

minute morning walk or light stretching to help relieve muscle tension and

prevent stagnation.

3. Embrace emotional flow: The Liver system is inextricably tied to emotional

balance, especially feelings of anger and frustration. Spring is a great time to set

intentions to let go of stored resentment and allow emotions to move through

rather than stay suppressed.

Acupressure at Home

Massage or press each point with medium pressure on both sides of the body for 30

seconds to 1 minute each.

The Large Intestine channel runs from the hand through the side of the neck and up to the head. The fourth point on the channel, shown here (LI 4) is known as the Command Point of the face, meaning that it is great for any symptoms like headaches and allergies.

*Don’t press this point if you are pregnant!

The Triple Warmer channel also from the hand through the side of the neck, around the ears and to the temples.

Triple Warmer 9 (TW 9) is a point on this channel located slightly higher than

halfway up the top of the forearm. Press around this area for the most tender spot and massage on each arm for 30 seconds to one minute to relieve neck pain.

Liver 3 (LV 3) is the third on the Liver channel and is located on the top of

the foot in a depression found about 1 inch behind the web of the first and second toe.

This point is extremely useful for grounding Liver Qi as well as coursing Qi to prevent stagnation.

Written by Dr. Sally Troyanovski, M.Ac, DAcCHM, L.Ac

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