TCM This Season

In the TCM view, the internal organs are much more than physical structures. It sees them as complex systems also involving aspects of the mind, emotions and spirit. So not only does each organ have a physiological function, it has functions at the invisible level of vital energy, or Qi. Each organ is uniquely related to a body tissue, a sense organ, emotion, taste, sound, climate, and a direction, among a seemingly endless range of correspondences. These associated qualities are organized in TCM's Theory of Five Elements, and this theory provides TCM practitioners with a framework to understand, diagnose and treat health problems.

Spring—The Wood Element

Spring is the season associated with the Wood element. The Liver and its partner organ, the Gallbladder, are predominant at this time. Like all the other organs, the Liver performs many important functions necessary to maintain good health.

Promoting the Free Flow of Qi and Blood

"The Liver is the root of stopping all extremes." So the ancient TCM classic, the Nei Jing, states. This means that where Qi and blood flow too much or too little in your body, it is the Liver's job to correct the situation. Sometimes there is a blockage or stagnation of Qi and/or blood. In TCM's view, this internal condition over time can cause the formation of masses or tumors. A healthy, balanced Liver prevents this from happening.

Storing and Regulating Blood

The Liver is an important organ in terms of women's health. Its functions of storing blood as well as regulating blood flow promote a properly functioning menstrual cycle. When this function is impaired, a wide range of symptoms such as irregular or painful periods, PMS, cramps, headaches and distending pain in the breasts may be experienced.

Ensuring the Smooth Flow of Emotion

Do you know the Liver is also responsible for the even flow of your emotions? It's natural to experience a range of emotions in the course of daily life, yet if you continually hold on to any emotion on a long-term basis, this can cause health difficulties. TCM understands the importance of letting emotions go.

Assisting the Digestive Process

Without the Liver's smoothing and regulating function, there would be chaos in your entire digestive process. Because the Liver and Spleen have a close relationship, the Spleen would be unable to transform food into the Qi and blood needed to nourish and sustain the entire body, including the Liver. The Stomach, the Spleen's partner, would have a difficult job of sending the food downward. Symptoms such as poor appetite and belching are signals that this Liver function could be imbalanced.

In the TCM view everything is interdependent. A difficulty with one organ can, over time, impact the function of the other organs. Fostering the health of your Liver in spring not only helps to maintain the balance of your whole body during this season, but also creates a healthy foundation to enter the following season.