The season of Spring – Awakening time for growth and new beginnings

As March comes to a close, the season of Spring has been firmly established. Spring belongs to the element of Wood in Chinese medicine, signifying new beginnings and rebirth after the cold harshness of winter.

In nature, trees, as universal symbols of growth and creation, embody the Wood element. They are firmly rooted in the ground, but the branches are flexible and bend and shape depending on the changing weather conditions. They grow upwards towards the light but with the ability to move and sway in the wind – both firm and flexible in equal measure. They represent growth, expansion, and the capacity for change.

In Chinese medicine, nature, the elements and the seasons are also represented in the human body. This makes sense because we are part of nature too. Like the tree, we human beings should be similarly adaptable, both internally and externally, and be flexible to any change.

All the organs in the body have a natural affinity to one or other of the seasons/elements and Spring/Wood belong to the pairing of the Liver and Gallbladder. Each organ, according to these ancient theories, has an energetic function which extends beyond that of our physiological understanding. Capital letters are used when referring to each organ in this way, to indicate that the description encompasses more than just its physiology. On an energetics level, the Liver and Gallbladder are interlinked by an involvement in planning and decision making.

The Liver and Gallbladder work in tandem to ensure the body's smooth functioning. The Liver's role in regulating Qi and blood flow is complemented by the Gallbladder's role in decision-making and bile excretion. Together, they help to maintain emotional equilibrium and physiological balance.

In Chinese medicine, the Liver is often associated with planning and strategy, while the Gallbladder is linked to the ability to execute those plans. This pairing emphasises the importance of both foresight and action in achieving balance in life. When both Organs are functioning harmoniously, a person experiences a sense of purpose, direction, and adaptability.

The Liver is considered the General of the body. It is responsible for the storage and regulation of blood, ensuring that it is distributed evenly to all organs and tissues. It also governs the smooth flow of Qi, which is essential for emotional balance and physical health. When the Liver is functioning well, a person experiences clarity of vision, good decision-making abilities, and emotional stability.

From a physiological perspective, the liver's role in absorbing what can’t be digested is also significant. It helps regulate fat and sugar absorption, and collects residues of caffeine, drugs or chemicals, cleansing the body of toxins. However, when the liver is overburdened it can cause a myriad of issues such as high blood pressure, blood sugar imbalances and addictions. The liver also helps support the body’s allergy and immune response, and when unable to function properly it can lead to allergies and autoimmune disfunction.

Along with such health problems, from a Chinese medicine perspective, a poorly functioning Liver can also physically manifest as headaches, menstrual irregularities, and digestive issues. Emotionally a Liver out of balance often results in symptoms such as irritability, frustration, and anger. It can also be characterised by a person who is always full of plans but rarely puts them into action …all mouth and no trousers as the saying goes!

Having a lack of adaptability, or being set in your ways, which can often happen as we get older, is a sure sign the Liver needs attention. Even an excess of focus or striving too hard is another indication of a Liver under stress. 

The Gallbladder is the Liver's partner in crime. Physiologically the gallbladder is responsible for storing and excreting bile, which aids in digestion, particularly the digestion of fats, and can lead to problems such as gallstones. From a Chinese medicine perspective, the Gallbladder also plays a role in decision-making and courage. In the West we are familiar with the phrase ‘to have gall’, which means more or less the same thing. It is said that a well-balanced Gallbladder gives a person the ability to make clear choices, one who can adapt well and face challenges with determination. When out of balance this can be characterised by shyness, indecisiveness, timidity, and a lack of courage.

The harmonious functioning of the Liver and Gallbladder, especially during the season of Spring is essential for emotional and physical health, allowing individuals to navigate life with clarity, courage, and adaptability. By nourishing these Organs through diet, lifestyle, and traditional therapies, we can support the body's natural rhythms and embrace the growth and renewal that Spring brings.