There is a force and clarity within the springtime that signals us to move and grow, just as it provides vitality to the seedling that must push through the cold, hard ground and reach upwards toward the sun. This surge of life in the springtime is traditionally associated with the Eastern quadrant, the rising of the sun, the waxing of the moon, and the greenery of life, which is often translated as the Wood element.

Within the body this quality relates to the liver. The alternation within the liver of stillness and the outward impulse helps to maintain the smooth flow and rhythm of the qi and blood. This is the qi of the liver, pushing through obstacles and blockages in order to move us forward in life.

If we use a metaphorical description of the body as a kingdom, the liver is classically described as the general of the armed forces. The general pushes through obstacles and gives a dynamic impulse to the movements and resources of the kingdom.

The liver has a very close relationship to the blood. It is said to store and release the blood within the rhythm of day and night and within the monthly rhythm of women’s menstrual cycles. The richness of the liver blood supports the hun, which the liver houses. The hun are the specific aspects of our life that are involved with the higher functions of intelligence, imagination, intuition and knowledge.

When the surging energy of springtime is too forceful there will be problems such as increased feelings of pressure and tension, both physically and emotionally. Emotions will tend to run high, ranging from overwhelm and depression to irritation and anger. Women’s menstrual cycles may also be affected, with a greater chance of irregular cycles and heavier menstruation. In this situation we need to soften the effects of the springtime and take action to harmonize with the season.

In the next newsletter I will give some specific recommendations for supporting the liver and harmonizing with the springtime.

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Our next Foundations of Medical Qigong workshop is tentatively scheduled for Saturday April 8th. We will confirm the date on the website once it is finalized. The Foundations of Medical Qigong workshop covers the essential core exercises of Medical Qigong. This class gives you the resources to begin practicing at home and fulfills the prerequisite for the ongoing Wednesday night class. Please contact me for more information or see our classes page via the link below (the classes page will be updated with the class information as soon as I have it, so check back in a couple days if the date is not yet up).

click here to go to the classes page on our website