Spring is waking up... and it has been a bit windy with the weather changes occuring the last few days. During this early transitional period as nature slowly stirs, there is a sense of things picking up speed, but it can also be a bit erratic; like nature can’t make up her mind and can feel a bit unsure how to get started? Sunny warmer days can be followed by gusty and cooler days with colder mornings and evenings, as well as windy periods.
Winds in the Spring are caused by cold air lingering from the Winter, and the warmer air moving in, creating a difference in pressure from the contrasting temperatures, which creates the movement of air and the sensation of wind.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Spring is associated with the Wood element, which corresponds to the Liver and Gallbladder organs.
Wind is considered one of the external pathogenic factors (six evils) that can affect the body's balance, causing health issues. According to TCM, Wind can carry other pathogens like cold, heat, dampness, or dryness into the body, potentially causing imbalances and various ailments.
During the Spring, when the Liver's energy is the most active, the body may be more susceptible to Wind invasion.
Wind can cause various symptoms and imbalances in the body.
Symptoms of wind invasion might include:
Sudden Onset: Wind is often associated with sudden and rapid changes, so symptoms might appear suddenly.
Aches and Pains: Wind can cause muscle aches, joint pains, and stiffness, which tend to move around quickly.
Chills and Fever: Depending on the accompanying factors, Wind invasion can lead to chills or fever.
Headache: Wind can cause sudden and severe headaches, often felt on the top or sides of the head.
Runny Nose: Wind invasion might result in a sudden onset of a runny or congested nose.
Sensitivity to Wind: People affected by Wind might be particularly sensitive to drafts and wind.
Itchy Skin: Wind can cause itching and rashes that come and go quickly.
Dizziness and Vertigo: Sudden bouts of dizziness or vertigo can be attributed to wind in TCM.
Spasms and Tremors: Wind can lead to involuntary movements, twitches, or tremors.
Emotional Changes: Wind is associated with sudden mood swings, irritability, and anxiety.
It's important to note that TCM considers the interplay of multiple factors when diagnosing and treating Wind-related imbalances. If you suspect Wind invasion, it's advisable to consult a qualified TCM practitioner for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
So whilst Spring finally brings the warmth of the sun that awakens our energy… and is all about shedding the layers; we need to protect ourselves in this early transition period to ensure we are our most vibrant and full of vitality for all that the coming warmer months have on offer. If you are struggling with this transition period in any way and not feeling that shift and awakening of your energy or feeling a bit irritable or moody, our team of practitioners might be able to help regulate the Liver and any other imbalances you are experiencing to get you back on track and feeling your optimal.
Click to read more about Spring in previous blogs, to further understand the philosophies and associations in TCM.
Sources
Di, H. (1995). The Yellow Emperor’s classic of medicine: a new translation of the neijing suwen with commentary. (M. Ni, Trans.)
Kirkwood, J. (2016). The way of the five elements.
Pritchard, P. (2002). Healing with whole foods (3rd edition).
Maciocia, Giovanni (2009). The psyche in chinese medicine