Supporting Your Liver in the Spring
Traditional Chinese Medicine believes that spring is associated with the wood element which translates to renewal and birth. The wood element is also represented by wind, the color green and the organs of the liver and gallbladder, also known as your body's ultimate filtration system.
The Importance of the Liver
Your liver is an incredible filter. By removing toxins, producing bile and creating metabolic functionality, the liver is a powerhouse of an organ. From a TCM lens, the liver regulates the qi, or the life force that courses through your entire body, and stores blood. This is important because your qi is carried through your blood to support your organs, muscles and tissues. It’s continuously cycled through your body and cleansed through the liver.
How to Support Your Liver
There are several methods to adopt in order to nourish your liver and to allow for your qi to flow freely. The biggest impact you can have on your liver is through the foods you eat. Before we dive into nutrition, let’s mention three other ways you can support this organ through movement, acupuncture and emotion.
Move your body through gentle exercise such as walking, yoga or pilates - it doesn’t have to be a full on HIIT workout. Start out intentional and deliberate.
Receive an acupuncture treatment to unblock and circulate the qi in your body.
Let yourself have a good cry session to release and physically detox your emotions.
Supporting the Liver with Nutrition
We already know that this entire season is encompassed by the color green so it should be no surprise that the foods that best support the liver are green! Kale, broccoli, spinach, wheat grass, and collard greens are all fantastic foods that nourish the liver. Sour foods, turmeric and even black beans can be excellent detoxifiers as well. To learn more about spring foods, don’t miss our blog TCM Foods To Eat During the Spring Season.
For an easy springtime recipe that will nourish your liver and support detoxification, we absolutely love this dandelion greens + eggs skillet. Packed with all sorts of liver fortifying foods, this recipe is delicious and easy to make.
Dandelion Greens + Egg Skillet
Packed with greens, this gentle and nutritious recipe was designed to support your liver.
Further Spring Support + Resources
If you’re finding the transition from winter to spring to be difficult, we’re here to support you. One of the most effective ways to regulate your Qi is through acupuncture. You can book your session here. Another way we can help is through our online telehealth services. Book a session with one of our Master Herbalists to receive your own personalized recommendations and guidance. Finally, if you’re interested in learning more about healing your body through the natural elements, take our quiz to find out what your element type is.