Spring is a time when the earth is waking up from the dormancy of winter, and new growth is beginning to emerge. According to the classic text Huangdi Neijing, this is a time to be active and engage in activities that support the Liver and Gallbladder organs, such as eating fresh, green foods, getting regular exercise, and spending time outdoors.
In traditional Chinese philosophy, the spring season is associated with: blue-green, the color of new growth and renewal, and the hue associated with the shimmering of the mythological scales of the dragon; the emotions of anger and frustration, which can disrupt the qi dynamic of the Liver, or which can arise when the Liver energy is stagnant; the sour taste, which homes to the Liver. The Liver’s nature is to expand outward in all directions, which is similar to the effect attributed to the acrid flavor. The sour flavor’s effect of contracting and binding is the complement and opposite to this vigorous and expansive movement of the Liver system, tempering its function; the climate of wind, which is said to be the main pathogenic factor during the spring season and can be a factor in colds, allergies, and other respiratory issues; and the eyes, which are associated with the Liver and can be affected by the rising change in natural forces during the spring season.
The three months of spring,
they denote effusion and spreading.
In heaven and earth everything comes to life;
the myriad beings prosper.
Go to rest late at night and rise early.
Move through the courtyard with long strides.
Dishevel the hair and relax the physical appearance,
thereby cause the mind to come to life.
Generate and do not take life.
Give and do not take.
Reward and do not punish.
This is correspondence with the qi of spring, and
it is the Way to nourish life.-Neijing Suwen: Ch. 2
Unschuld and Tessenow translation
The Huangdi Neijing (Yellow Emperor's Inner Classic) is a foundational text of Chinese medicine that dates to roughly the third century BCE. It contains numerous references to the seasonal changes and their effects on the body-mind, suggestions which have stood the test of time.
The Ming dynasty (1368-1644 CE) doctor Gao Wu reflects on the Neijing with regards to the rhythm of the seasons:
The myriad beings come to life because of the warmth of spring qi; they grow because of the fire and heat of the summer qi; they are gathered because of the clarity of the autumn qi; and they are stored because of the cold of the winter qi.
The wildflower super-bloom of spring marks a propitious moment for considering a special botanical: chrysanthemum blossom. A quintessential Wood-element herb, chrysanthemum is rich in mythology and symbolism in many cultures, and is used as an important medicament in traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine.
Chrysanthemum as a symbol expresses nobility and longevity. Chinese and Asian culture commonly depicts these themes through the petals of chrysanthemum in various media, including paintings, poetry, and the written word. In this context, Chrysanthemum is usually one of the Four Gentlemen (sìjūnzǐ), along with plum blossom, orchid, and bamboo.
The chrysanthemum flower (Chrysanthemum morifolium) is known as ju hua in Chinese herbal medicine, and is used for its cooling, clearing, and calming effects. The liver-organ system is the main target for its use.
The Chinese character for "wind" is 風 (fēng). The etymology of this character can be traced back to ancient Chinese observations of nature. In Chinese culture, the wind has long been regarded as a powerful force that can bring change and transformation to the world, and indeed, is described as the primal movement which cosmologically generated life.
In TCM, wind is seen as movement which can both carry other pathogenic factors into the body and disrupt the body's qi and blood flow. This disharmony can manifest as headaches, muscle pain, stiffness, and respiratory issues.
There are several different types of wind disorders in traditional Asian medicine, each with its own unique set of signs, associated pathologies, and etiologies. Engaging with wind-related conditions often involves the use of acupuncture, herbs, and dietary changes. The goal is to restore the body's balance and harmony, while also dispelling the pathogenic factors that are causing dysfunction. In addition, TCM practitioners may also recommend lifestyle changes, such as getting more rest, avoiding windy, cold, and damp environments, and practicing stress-reducing activities such as meditation and tai chi.
The spring season is seen as a time of opportunity for growth, transformation, and renewal. By embracing the qualities of the season and supporting the Liver and Gallbladder organ systems, while protecting oneself from the rapid changes associated with the wind climatic factor, individuals can cultivate greater health and vitality, expanding their vision and blossoming like the 16-petaled chrysanthemum.
The East generates wind;
wind generates wood.
Wood generates sour [flavor].
Sour [flavor] generates the liver.
The liver generates the sinews.
The sinews generate the heart.
The liver rules the eyes.
The spirit,
in heaven it is wind,
on the earth it is wood,
in the body it is sinews.-Neijing Suwen: 5-35-8
Unschuld and Tessenow translation