Spring Wellness in Chinese Medicine

The Role of the Liver and Qi

How Chinese Medicine explains muscle tension, seasonal changes, and staying balanced in spring

Spring is almost among us and hallelujah I am ready to embrace some warmth and sunshine. In Chinese Medicine each season corresponds with an organ. Spring is the Liver. So, lets learn a little about the liver from a Chinese medicine perspective and what we may see during the spring.

What Is Qi and Why It Matters

The liver facilitates the smooth flow of Qi. What is Qi and what does that even mean?? Let me tell you. Qi is the life force and energy of the body. It is interdependent with blood. They flow through the body together providing nourishment and maintaining balance and good health. Qi pushes the blood through the body while the blood nourishes the body. When Qi is in excess it pushes too much blood which results in a buildup/blockage also referred to as stagnation. When Qi is deficient, it is not strong enough to push the blood which also results in stagnation. When Qi is stagnant it can manifest as pain and muscle tension.

Why Spring Can Lead to Muscle Tension

Since spring is the time of the liver and the liver governs muscles and tendons, this means spring is also a time where we are more prone to muscle tension leading to muscle strain, and injury. Gardening, house renos, spring cleaning, and overdoing it at the gym are some of the most common culprits that bring people in to see me this time of year.

Light movement and stretching help keep Qi flowing and reduce springtime tension. | Photo by Vitaly Gariev

How to Support Your Body in Spring

What can we do about this? Rest and relax? While I am always one to recommend rest and relaxation these days, movement is essential and keeps the Qi flowing smoothly. Going for walks, lifting weights at the gym, yoga, bike rides…Anything that is moving the body is aiding in the flow of Qi and blood.

How to Keep Qi Flowing Smoothly

• Go for regular walks or light movement

• Incorporate strength training or yoga

• Avoid overexertion and burnout

• Take breaks and stretch when needed

• Start with a proper warm-up before activity

Also, keep in mind that it doesn’t have to be intense. Infact, I wouldn’t recommend overexerting yourself. Too much physical work depletes Qi which can also lead to stagnation. Have a good work out, push yourself if you are up to it, absolutely work hard BUT…you should feel rejuvenated after exercise NOT exhausted. We want to build up and support our body not deplete it of Qi (energy) and blood. Remember to take breaks, stretch when you need to and listen to your body. A good dynamic warm up before your activity to get the blood flowing, joints lubricated and muscles and tendons ready for action can really help avoid any strains or injuries.

Common Signs of Spring Liver Imbalance

• Muscle tightness or stiffness

• Irritability or frustration

• Feeling tense or “stuck”

• Increased risk of strain or injury

Acupuncture can help release tension and restore the smooth flow of Qi. | Photo by Katherine Hanlon

If you do find yourself in pain or noticing that springtime liver tension, acupuncture is always a great way to get qi moving again, release pain and tension and get you back to the things you love.

If you’re feeling tight, tense, or out of balance this spring, acupuncture can help restore the smooth flow of Qi and get you back to feeling your best.

By Marnie Kickbush, Registered Acupunturist