Spring is well and truly with us now. Just as the energy in Nature is changing, so is that within our own bodies. In Qigong practice, we understand this as the time of year when the Wood element* predominates. This is the energy that gives rise to growth and activity, and is closely associated with the liver. The body is seeking to cleanse itself of the stale energy left over from the colder months, so the liver will be working hard. There is a touch of excitement about this season, too, because Fire is also strengthening as we begin the trek towards the heat of summer.
Tune in outside
What does this mean for us? Cocooned in our modern homes and workplaces, we may forget that the body is intelligent and is informed by its surroundings. Getting outside into the fresh air more helps us to stay in tune with our environment. Having a little more physical activity is important, too. Nature prompts us, quite literally, to spring into action.
But don’t overdo it
That doesn’t mean trotting off to the gym, necessarily. Having just passed the Spring Equinox, we are at the halfway point between the maximum Yin energy of winter and the Yang energy of the summer. The balance is actually a little delicate, like a seesaw balancing on its fulcrum. If we do too much, it is easy to put the body out of balance. Moderation in all things is the key if we want to keep our immune system strong.
Be happy!
The emotion of happiness is very supportive for the liver, so it is very good to keep smiling, even if life is throwing a few curved balls at us. Smile to yourself when you wake up in the morning and send a smile out from your heart into the world. “I am happy and grateful for being right here. Thank you.” Words like that – there is no formula, so use whatever phrase you feel comfortable with – immediately begin to change our energy for the rest of the day. It works like magic, so perhaps it is!
*The Five Elements are Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water