Spring in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) 🌱🌸
- Leanne Hutton
- Mar 15, 2025
- 2 min read

Spring in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a time of growth, renewal, and expansion. It is associated with the Wood element, which governs the Liver and Gallbladder. As Yang energy rises, this season is all about movement, detoxification, and fresh starts.
Energy & Emotional Changes
Spring is a time of renewal—a season to release stagnation and embrace new possibilities.
The Liver governs anger, frustration, and planning—imbalances may cause irritability, impatience, or stress.
It’s important to stay flexible (physically and mentally) to align with the season’s energy of expansion.
This is a great time for goal-setting, creative projects, and personal growth.
Organ Focus: Liver & Gallbladder
The Liver regulates the smooth flow of Qi (energy), blood, and emotions.
The Gallbladder supports decision-making and courage.
Imbalances in Spring can manifest as:
Irritability, mood swings, or feeling “stuck”
Headaches or migraines (especially at the temples)
Tight muscles, stiff joints, or tendon issues (the Liver governs tendons)
Eye problems (dryness, redness, or blurry vision)
Indigestion or bloating
Allergies (related to Liver Qi stagnation and overactive immune response)
Dietary Adjustments for Spring 🥗🌿
Spring is the best season for cleansing and light, fresh foods that support the Liver’s detoxification function.
Best Foods for Spring:
✔ Leafy Greens & Bitter Foods (help cleanse the Liver)
Spinach, kale, dandelion greens, arugula 🥬
Sprouts (bean sprouts, microgreens) 🌱
Celery & cucumbers
✔ Sour-Flavored Foods (stimulate the Liver)
Lemon & lime 🍋
Apple cider vinegar
Pickled vegetables
✔ Light, Fresh Foods
Radishes, carrots, beets 🥕
Asparagus, artichokes
Fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro) 🌿
✔ Whole Grains & Beans (support Liver Qi movement)
Brown rice, quinoa, millet 🌾
Lentils & mung beans
🚫 Avoid overly greasy, heavy, or processed foods as they congest the Liver.
Exercise & Movement in Spring 🏃♀️🧘♂️
Increase movement! Spring is about releasing stagnation and expanding energy.
Stretching & flexibility exercises (great for tendons & joints).
Yoga, Qi Gong, or Tai Chi to circulate Liver Qi.
Outdoor activities: hiking, cycling, jogging—connect with nature.
Deep breathing exercises to clear Liver stagnation.
Lifestyle Adjustments for Spring 🌞
Wake up earlier: Align with the rising Yang energy.
Declutter & clean: A great time for spring cleaning (physical & emotional).
Stay hydrated to support detoxification.
Practice mindfulness: Journaling, meditation, or breathwork can help manage Liver emotions.
Be flexible! The Liver governs adaptability—embrace change.
Key Takeaways for Spring in TCM 🌿
✔ Support the Liver & Gallbladder
✔ Eat light, fresh, & cleansing foods
✔ Move more & stretch often
✔ Embrace change & creativity
✔ Detox & declutter (inside & out)
Book Your Acupuncture Session & Find Your Elemental Balance 🌿✨
Are you experiencing any of these imbalances? Instead of pushing through discomfort, TCM helps you listen to your body and make adjustments before bigger health issues arise.
At Evidence Acupuncture with Leanne Hutton, you’ll receive a personalized treatment plan based on your unique elemental imbalances, guiding you back to harmony and optimal well-being.
📅 Book your acupuncture session today and take the first step toward feeling your best!
💻 Book here | 📞 Call: +61 411 307 433




Comments