Regulating Liver-Qi
Why Care for the Liver in Spring?
Liver-Qi rises strongly in spring, making it susceptible to stagnation. The fluctuating weather and humidity can lead to emotional instability and decreased immunity. Spring is a crucial time for liver care, Qi regulation, and strengthening immunity.
Signs of Liver-Qi Stagnation:
·Emotional instability
·Irritability or depression
·Frequent dreams or waking up easily
·Digestive issues
Three Major Behaviors Harming the Liver:
1.Lack of Sleep: Compared to Europe, Asians generally get much less sleep. Only in China are sleep durations reaching the recommended 7 hours*.
2.Dietary Burden: Diets high in oil, sugar, and additives.
3.Impact of Humidity: High humidity in spring can easily lead to "Pattern of Dampness Binding the Spleen and Liver Overacting" and allowing the liver to become stagnant and damp (symptoms: fatigue, thick tongue coating, low mood).
*Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2018), Sleepcycle
Strengthening the Spleen and Removing Dampness
Why Is Fatigue Common in Spring?
Traditional Chinese medicine speaks of "Dampness encumbering the Spleen" referring to the heavy humidity in spring that impacts the spleen and stomach's ability to function properly. This can lead to symptoms like fatigue, lack of appetite, and a heavy feeling in the body. This condition is often called "spring fatigue" or "damp fatigue." Generally, "spring fatigue" is not a disease but rather a normal physiological response. However, its occurrence may signal suboptimal health.
Spring Wellness Tips
Diet Moderation:
Focus on "more greens, less sour" to stimulate liver Qi. Increase the intake of green vegetables to help regulate the liver, while reducing sour foods. Regular meal times and a balanced diet are recommended.
Consistent Routine:
Align with spring by going to bed early and waking up with the sunrise. Aim to sleep before 11 PM and rise with the morning light. A 20-minute afternoon rest can help rejuvenate the mind.
Moderate Exercise:
Engage in gentle exercises like Baduanjin or Tai Chi to promote the flow of Qi and blood. Stop when you start to sweat lightly, avoiding excessive sweating that depletes Yang energy or leads to overexertion.
Emotional Balance:
Maintain a cheerful and peaceful mindset. Engage in outdoor activities like flower viewing to relieve emotional stagnation.
Spring Care Recommendations
Dried Rose and Tangerine Peel Tea: Regulates Liver-Qi, relieves depression, and harmonizes the stomach.
Dried Pu’er Tea with Tangerine Peel: Regulates Qi, strengthens the spleen, and warms the body to eliminate cold dampness.
Chinese Yam and Poria Pork Rib Soup: Strengthens the spleen, eliminates dampness, and regulate Qi.
Gorgon Fruit and Millet Congee: Strengthens the spleen, nourishes the kidneys, and consolidates Jing and Qi.
