So far, March seems to be true to its reputation. Just when you thought it was safe to start planting, there is snow in the forecast. I am starting to hear anticipation of allergies and spring colds, and this brings to me an important topic: living with the seasons.
According to Chinese Medicine, Spring is associated with the Wood element, which corresponds to the Liver. “Liver time” is a time for new growth, planning ahead, and becoming more active. So take your cues from nature and begin to dust off the winter cobwebs. But not too quickly! Just like the trees and tulips, we can’t bloom overnight.
In Chinese Medicine, the Liver rules the eyes, governs the free flow of energy, and nourishes muscle and tendons. If we don’t transition properly, spring can be a time for itchy eyes, angry outbursts, and sports injuries. If I had to name the top three things Acupuncture can effectively treat, they would be: inflammation, stress, and pain. The key to a healthy spring is preventing these symptoms from arising in the first place. Begin treatments now and be able to enjoy the beautiful Spring season!
Allergies
Acupuncture has been found to have a profoundly anti-inflammatory affect, which is the cause of your stuffy nose and itchy eyes. Depending on the severity, symptoms may be alleviated with a few weekly treatments, without the dreaded “allergy medication fog”. Acupuncture points on the face can immediately decrease sinus pressure and help you breathe easier. Body points are also needled to treat the deeper cause and keep symptoms from coming back. Early treatment is the best way to prevent seasonal allergies from occurring.
Stress
When our energy begins to surface after a long winter of lower activity levels, it can sometimes be a tricky transition. There can be some more stagnant areas and when things get backed up and flow the wrong way, stress and angry outbursts can result. Weekly Acupuncture treatments now can help ease this transition and keep you easy-going as your life begins to get busier.
Injuries
Whether you are training for the upcoming mud run, or just getting muddy in your garden, Spring is the time for strained muscles and increased backpain. While it is tempting to get out and take advantage of the first warm weekend, remember to start slow! Please, enjoy the sunshine and stay active, but take the time to properly warm up and stretch before any activity, no matter how light it may seem. I have seen patients laid up for days from simply sweeping the front porch or lifting one bag of fertilizer. If you find yourself still sore more than a couple days after activity, you may have overdone it. Make an appointment to come in and get those muscles released through Acupuncture, cupping, and oriental bodywork.