Spring Time to Renew Yourself

Spring Time is here and it’s early this year! The days are becoming warmer as the sun moves higher in the sky creating a burst of new energy and new life. This is the time of year for growth and renewal in nature and in ourselves.

In his classic text on living in harmony with nature, “Staying Healthy with the Seasons”, Elson M. Haas, MD says, “In the Chinese system of Five Elements, the spring season is correlated with the element of Wood, which governs the gall bladder and liver. The Wood element refers to living, growing entities: trees, plants, and the human body. They grow simultaneously out and upward, down and inward. The development of the root structure, as well as its early nourishment by sun, air, water, and soil provide the strength and growth to the organism. Each entity has its individual requirements in these areas.”

What do you need to grow well? The fresh air, light, and wind may provide us with the ability to have mental clarity to focus, plan, and make decisions. If, you feel sluggish, fatigued, stiff, sore or not as mentally or emotionally clear, you may want to give yourself attention. Perhaps you would like to make a health plan to grow in all areas of your life.

Christine Gendreau, Licensed Acupuncturist, says this is an excellent time of year to consider cleansing the body of excess waste and dis-ease as the liver and the gall bladder are more active this time of year. The liver breaks down food, stores and distributes nourishment, and filters toxins from the blood. The gall bladder aides the intestines to break down fats and assists the functioning of the small intestines. She suggests that a personalized cleanse or detoxification program may assist your energy and over-all health.

“People think of cleansing or detoxing what they put in their body. You might also do well to turn off the extra noises and hub-bub around you that you’re constantly connected to by turning off your cell phone, and disconnecting from Facebook and e-mail.” Says Dr. James Ryan, D.C.

Relieving tension, stress, and negative emotions may prevent illness or disease. A daily practice of meditation and/or relaxation will invite in peace, clarity, and connection to Spirit and Intuition. The emotion of anger and shouting are related to the Wood Element. This is a good time to get to the root cause of your anger or other emotions that may be holding you back.

Receiving bodywork such as Acupressure, Massage, Reflexology or Energy Healing may assist you to cleanse and re-balance your mind, body, and spirit. Regular stretching such as Yoga and enjoyable exercises will strengthen and tonify your vitality.

The spark of new life and the color green is associated with Spring and the Wood Element. Enjoy this time of year as your re-connect with yourself, nature, and your loved ones!

Emmy Vadnais is a Holistic Occupational Therapist who is available to assist you with your Health & Wellness plans and goals. She can be reached at 651-292-9938 or [email protected].