In TCM different seasons are thought to represent different personalities and characteristics--so what does that mean for you?
Many of us have noticed a dandelion pushing itself through a crack in concrete, and may have even stopped to marvel at its sense of determination to live and grow. This little wonder is the energy of Spring, the energy of new life bursting into existence.
In Chinese Medicine theory, the energy that comes with springtime is represented by the element wood. Wood is the first element in the 5 element cycle, it is the birth phase and witnessed in nature when seeds and buds explode into new growth. These elements are also tied to correlating personality traits. TCM believes that people can reflect these same springtime qualities in their everyday lives.
What Determines a Spring Personality?
In TCM the spring personality is viewed as the "pioneer." Although not an incredibly common trait in our modern day world, Pioneers are regarded as people who continually break new ground and continue to explore. Whether you can relate to the pioneer mindset or not, we can admire the will power it takes to move forward despite challenges. It takes vision to set sail to new horizons, but the Pioneer doesn't stop there. They take the necessary action; they move.
Do You Have a Spring Personality?
If your answer to the majority of these questions is YES than it is very likely you have a spring personality
Do you consider yourself motivated?
Do you work well under pressure?
Do you have a hard time relaxing?
Have you ever started a new business?
Do you work in an innovative field?
Do you like to be the boss?
Do you get frustrated with injustice?
How can I Embrace my Springtime Personality?
The wood-type personality can sometimes be seen as harsh, given the tenacity they naturally embody. They can also be prone to anger, the emotion associated with liver energy. Liver is the wood element’s organ and the organ of springtime. In our bodies, the liver likes to get our qi moving after winter’s lull, and as a result can make us feel irritated if hindered in any way. It is important to work on adjusting your speed and intensity to not feel either stifled or burned out.
Pioneers can keep balance by finding time to slow down when necessary, get regular massages to loosen tight muscles and stiff joints, and enjoy but not overdo spicy or sour foods. Green is a great color for these wood types to align with the natural expression of springtime. Wearing green or keeping some indoor plants can help a wood-type whose lifestyle may keep them indoors for periods of time. Simple adjustments like these can help to prevent some of the health issues Pioneers may face like tension headaches, high blood pressure, or burnout fatigue.
Yours in health & wellness,
Book our New Patient Special to keep your wood element in balance and help you to feel as alive and proud as that little dandelion that burst through the concrete to smile at the sun!
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