the REN DAO Wellness Center Blog

Spring is a time of rebirth and revitalization. It is the start of the natural cycle of life that includes birth, growth, maturation, decline and death. This is the season when trees enter their active growing phases and the landscape turns from the bland colors of winter to green. Our spirits lighten and we feel a sense of excitement stir within us. In Chinese medicine, spring is associated with the element wood, the environmental condition of wind and the color green. The organ associated with spring is the liver / gallbladder. The liver functions similar to the gardener planning and preparing his garden. Presiding over the garden, he must insure all plans and task are carried out smoothly and efficiently. Spring embodies the spirit of rebirth, clearing away the old and taking on a fresh new start. Like the gardener clearing the soil and sowing new seeds; proper exercise, food and attitudes help clear debris accumulated from the past seasons and make room for new and healthy growth. In spring, we feel a need to air out our closets and clean house. Similarly, we feel the need to lighten up, clear out the sludge, reduce the fat and get moving. It seems natural that many start diets, undergo internal cleansing and detox procedures in spring. A properly planned diet or detox program will leave you feeling more energetic, help shed extra pounds, tone the muscles and strengthen and moisten the tendons and ligaments. It will also help burn away accumulated toxins, strengthen the liver, lift the spirits and brighten the mind.