Wood
Spring is a time of growth, expansion and buoyancy. Like the seed that has been lying dormant in the earth during winter conserving its reserves, in springtime it bounds forward with new intent to bring life to our planet. The associated Wood element is about renewal, awakening and rebirth with a movement of upwards, sprouting from its seed reaching up in search of light.
We see this clearly in the spring. From the darkness and quietness of winter, nature wakes up stretching her arms, feeling her muscles and tendons as she prepares for movement.
The same thing happens with us. We begin to feel something rising within, bringing more energy, interest in getting outdoors, making plans and taking on projects.
Wood energy is a dynamic, unstoppable force for action. When we are in harmony, we not only see the physical transformation of spring in nature, but we envision our own growth during this time. We are creative and confident. When in balance, we seek growth, expansion and leadership while displaying flexibility like bamboo. When out of balance, the Wood element person may become irritable, frustrated and experience anger. Feeling stuck and held down.
This season and the Wood element are associated with two Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) meridians: The Liver and Gallbladder. The Liver stores the blood and softens of qi (our vital energy or life force that keeps our spiritual, emotional, mental and physical health in balance) so we don’t become too tense or restless. It is considered the Official of Strategic Planning as it guides our qi. The physical component of the liver has over 500 functions. The most important include synthesis of amino acids and cholesterol, metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins and fats, regulation of the blood to name a few. The liver supports almost every other organ in the body.
The Gallbladder in TCM helps us decide intelligently between our options and gives us the courage to make the best decisions. From a physical perspective, the Gallbladder collects and stores bile from the liver to assist in the breakdown of fats.
The relationship between the two in TCM is the Liver is seen as the General while the Gallbladder is the right-hand helper in all critical decisions from the smooth flow of blood to the ability to digest both our food and emotions.
Tapping into the energy of spring encourages us to stay in touch with our creativity. imagination and dreams. We can look at the trees for a lesson in standing tall by staying rooted, yielding to the winds of life by being flexible and agile and keeping our gaze upward and forward so we don’t lose sight of our true purpose.
In your yoga practices this season try approaching your asanas with a sense of curiosity and playfulness. Give yourself permission to experiment with new and different postures or approaches to your practice. Try movement with music, or with your eyes closed, chant, light a candle, try a new pose, do more twists and incorporate more balance postures as you reflect on the strength and grace of the Wood element. Spend more time outdoors and observe the trees and watch how they move and sway with the winds.