Spring is the time when Yang (the active, warm energy) rises, and the yin-heavy stillness of winter is shaken off. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Theory of the Five Transformations, spring is closely tied to the Tree element, an energy that rises and births vegetal life. Tree energy moves with clear purpose and direction, much like a sprouting seed reaching for the sun, and therefore naturally seeks Fire. In this way, Spring embodies growth, determination, and the path to transformation, like a new light emerging after the darkness of winter.
Physical Health
- An encouraging call-to-action: Spring is the best time of the year to lose weight and lighten the body’s energy.
- Spending time outside: As the weather gets sunnier, go outdoors on a hike, a walk etc.
- Detox: Spring is the time of the year when the Liver and Gall Bladder present themselves for an annual service.
- Rest: The Liver recharges from 11 PM to 3 AM in TCM’s clock. Sleeping during this time supports detox.
- Moderation: Overeating stifles Qi. Stick with smaller, balanced meals to keep energy moving.
- Hydrate: Water maintains the flow of Qi.
In TCM, the Tree element thrives on nutrient-dense, sour, and green-coloured foods. Avoid greasy, heavy foods that overtax the Gall Bladder. Instead, eat lighter foods, less meat, and more sprouts and grains. Consider incorporating these beneficial options into your diet.
Foods for Strengthening the Tree Element
1. Sour Flavoured Foods
The sour taste supports the Liver in detox and digestion.
Lemon, lime, sauerkraut: Aid bile flow in the Gall Bladder.
A splash of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water: Stimulates liver Qi and detox.
2. Green Foods
- Green veggies: Nourish liver blood. Consider chlorophyll-rich options like spinach, kale, seaweed Dulse and Wakame, broccoli, chard, or parsley.
3. Liver-Nourishing Foods
These foods support liver detoxification, bile production, fat metabolism, and overall regeneration
- Pulses and protein: Mung beans, edamame, cannellini, haricots, tempeh, tofu and natto.
- Grains: Oat, barley, wheat and rye.
- Seeds: Pumpkin seeds
4. Herbs and Spices
- Chamomile: Mildly bitter, cooling, and soothing. Softens Liver Qi stagnation (e.g., irritability, digestive upset) and promotes relaxation, balancing tree element’s tendency toward excess. A gentle ally for Gall Bladder-driven restlessness.
- Mugwort: Warm, bitter, and acrid. A classic herb for Qi stagnation, warming the energy channels which support the Liver’s role in circulation. It is often used in moxibustion.
- Sage: Warm, aromatic, and slightly bitter. Helps clear liver dampness and sharpens mental clarity.
- Dandelion: A bitter, cooling herb in TCM that supports the Liver by clearing heat and aiding detox.
- Turmeric: Its warm, pungent nature moves Qi and blood, benefiting Liver and Gall Bladder function.
- Mint: Sour and cooling. It harmonises the Liver, lifts mood, and aids in digestion.
If you would like to try some recipes specifically for the spring months, it is worth looking at these cookbooks:
- Macrobiotics for All Seasons by Marlene Watson-Tara, Chapter 6: Blooming in Spring
- Riverford Spring and Summer cooking with a veg box by Guy Watson, April-October
- The Changing Seasons Macrobiotic Cookbook by Wendy Esko, Chapter 2: Spring cooking
Refresh your body with a lighter, nourishing diet, and awaken Spring’s warmth from winter’s stillness. Emerge from hibernation into a season of renewal, embracing growth and vitality. This is the time to support your liver and Gall Bladder, ensuring smooth energy flow for a vibrant spring ahead.
By Hana Starace, Certified Shiatsu & Nutritional Practitioner