supporting spring with tcm
tcm theory
apothecary verde often considers traditional chinese medicine theory when creating our goods and practices to share. this eastern philosophy embraces a holistic approach to well-being and considers the inter-connectedness of all things over the common western approach of isolating just one thing (and then the next, and the next, etc.)
it can be a slower and incredibly rewarding process to move beyond the quick fix and commit to digging in and sourcing where we may be out of balance, but as we practice this, we can see how moving towards that middle road may naturally bring us into stronger health.
spring and the wood element
in tcm, the wood element drives the spring season of change and growth. the yin meridian line connected to this element is the liver meridian, and it’s responsible for regulating the flow of qi and balancing extremes in body and mind.
when there is a sense of harmony in the liver meridian, your internal environment feels at ease. when there is stuck or stagnant energy, you may feel frustrated, edgy, and irritated.
balancing the liver meridian
i work a LOT with this meridian to counter those feelings…and even just a couple of minutes can make a big difference, especially during the spring.
here’s an easy sequence i crafted recently to target the liver meridian line while also supporting the body through deep belly breathing, twisting, and adductor release (a commonly tight area on many of us!)
CREATING FLOW IN THE LIVER MERIDIAN
props: yoga mat + myofascial release ball (could also be a tennis ball, lacrosse ball, etc.)
1. bring the sole of the right foot to the inside of the left thigh, in preparation for single leg stretch pose (janu sirsasana)
2. place the myofasical ball between the sole of the right foot and inner left thigh, anywhere above the knee. for connective tissue release, press with the foot to create pressure. pivot on the heel of the extended leg to explore variations.
3. while seated with equal weight on both sit bones, twist upper body to your right, placing the right hand on the ground for support behind you, and your left hand on the right leg (this may allow even more pressure from the myofascial ball.
4. reach the right hand up and over on a diagonal, breathing big into the space created on the right side torso and waist.
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