Transitioning into Spring
It's the spring equinox. There's a real sense of renewal in the air and I can see it in people's faces, that thankful breath of relief. We made it through another winter. Fresh, spring greens are pushing through dead wood, flowers are appearing and the recent warm days are teasing our senses.
Go easy, our bodies have just emerged from a long, dark winter and are most likely depleted, tired and in need of deep nourishment. The temptation to leap at the earliest signs of life is high, but we must transition into spring just like nature does, gently.
This winter - spring transition is tender and sensitive. Winter is discerning and quiet, forcing us to draw inward and downward. To surrender to the silence and deep work within ourselves. Spring arrives and holds up the mirror, asking
"So what have you learnt, and what are you going to do with it?"
It takes time to develop substantial roots, sustain growth, bloom and reap the fruits. Spring is the time to grow steadily, taking notes from winter and putting thought into gentle action. Unfurl at pace, in a time that feels right. Soak up spring and observe. The change in temperatures, the increasing light, the scents and plants that are growing around you. This season isn't about external blossoming or forcing movement. It offers a hand to join the rising sap of life and move into the light at gentle pace.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the liver is in charge of spring. The liver rids the body of toxins, and is responsible for flow - of Qi, our blood, and our emotions. By supporting the liver we can keep things light, fresh and flowing (well and regulated).
Bitter herbs like dandelion leaves and sorrel aid digestion by stimulating bile production, awakening the liver and supporting detoxification. Herbs like cleavers flush toxins from our bodies, stimulating lymph flow and getting things moving again. The liver is your body's primary detoxification organ - processing, filtering, regulating, storing. Skin health is deeply connected to the liver, so by supporting this wonderful organ we can support our skin, too. It's all connected.
Recent days have been warm, but the nights are still cold. Layer well and gather strength from the lengthening daylight. Build relationships with the spring greens and seasonal medicine of the land, continuing to eat warm foods. Set intentions and prepare for the slow expansion of spring. Transition consciously, trust your intuition and gently awaken with the season and all that it has to offer us.
