In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Spring is considered a time of renewal, growth, and transformation, both in nature and within the human body. The energy of Spring is closely associated with the Wood element, which corresponds to the functional systems called Gan and Dan. These are two of the Zangfu systems of TCM. If you understand a little about Gan and Dan this will help you to understand the TCM view of how Spring affects health.

1. Gan function: The Gan regulates the smooth flow of Qi throughout the body. In spring, this energy tends to be especially active, reflecting the burst of growth and renewal in nature. When Gan Qi flows smoothly, it supports emotional balance, flexibility, and adaptability. However, if it becomes stagnant or imbalanced, it can lead to symptoms such as irritability, frustration, and physical tension.
2. Dan function: The Dan is closely linked to decision-making and courage in TCM. During spring, Dan Qi is also thought to be particularly active, helping us make clear decisions and take decisive action. However, imbalances may manifest as indecisiveness or difficulty or timidity in making choices.
3. Emotional Balance: Spring is associated with the emotions of anger and frustration in TCM. Just as nature bursts forth with new growth, unresolved emotions may also come to the surface during this time. Acupuncture, when used in accordance with the principles of Chinese Medicine, can help balance emotions and promote inner harmony.
4. Flexibility and Planning: The energy of Spring encourages the ability to plan and adapt to changing circumstances. Cultivating flexibility and adaptability during Spring can help prevent stagnation and promote a sense of vitality and well-being.

Spring and health

In TCM, maintaining balance within the body and harmonising with the changing seasons is important to overall health and well-being. When you see the first signs of green leaves on the trees, this is the start of Spring . So, you would expect to feel the stirring of interest in yourself to plan and organise new ventures. If your own Qi is in harmony with the Qi of Spring you will be planning and organising and looking forward to the year ahead.

Spring and Illness

TCM treatments such as acupuncture, herbal medicine and dietary adjustments, are often recommended to support the body's natural rhythms and promote health. The TCM view of how Spring affects health is also related to the change of seasons. Your health can be more easily disrupted during such changes. This is particularly noticable if the Spring arrives earlier or later than expected.

Your health can also be disturbed when there is an unseasonal swing from, say, Spring weather to weather which we would not expect to see until the Summer. Similarly, even a brief return to Winter weather can lead to you being vulnerable to illness.

If you would like to find a TCM Acupuncture Practitioner near you and make an appointment you can find our practitioner list on the PRTCM website and contact your nearest practitioner to arrange an appointment. All of the members of the PRTCM are fully qualified and insured and recognised by the major health insurance companies.