Navigating the Year of the Wood Dragon: Insights into Spring and Liver Health and Riding the wild tail of the Dragon this year
The year of the Wood Dragon is here and Spring is upon us. It's easy to talk about Spring and the year of the Wood Dragon together because Spring is associated with the Wood element in Chinese medicine and it's a Wood Dragon year. There is a lot of strong Qi all around! We are in transition between Winter and Spring and still fully transitioning into the year of the Dragon. Transitions can feel extra shaky for many people. I remember learning in school many years ago that it is the transition between seasons when we need to be extra mindful of ourselves and our patients because this is when challenges arrive and when sickness can appear. I see this very clearly now in my clinical practice. Why are transitions so difficult? Is it because they can be so transformational and we are getting forced to make changes? Is it because they ask us to reset, re-evaluate and step out of what's familiar? Maybe it's because they remind us nothing is permanent and change is happening whether we like it or not. Even though we all know change is the one constant in life, why do we fight it physically and mentally? Remember from my last newsletter, we get to ask questions and be curious. We don't have to know the answers. Important shifts happen within us and around us just by moving into curiosity.
The Chinese Lunar New Year was February 10th. The Lunar New Year happens every year on the second new moon after Winter Solstice. We went from the year of the Yin Water Rabbit into the Yang Wood Dragon. We have moved from Yin to Yang. I am really feeling this and seeing it in my patients. I am a pretty introverted rabbit and like things to feel peaceful and calm all of the time (which isn’t possible) so the year of the Dragon combined with transitioning into Spring can feel overwhelming if I don't stick to, and adjust where needed, my self-cultivation routines and practices. I have also been seeing a lot of patients come in with many challenges physically and mentally. But some patients and family members of mine (especially the rats and monkeys) are thriving with the strong Dragon energy. It will depend on your animal and personality when it comes to your response to the Qi shifting. But we can all benefit from staying grounded, rooted, and embracing and riding the energy of the Wood Dragon. The good news is the Wood Dragon is associated with vitality, strength, transformation, and many opportunities to let go of old patterns that no longer serve us. It is also a year associated with positive social change and collaboration.
Here are some simple tips on how to stay healthy this Spring and during the year of the Wood Dragon allowing for positive transformation for yourself and the world around us.
Renewed Energy, Growth and Mindful of Nutrition: The Wood Dragon combines the strength of the Wood element with the courage and power of the Dragon. This combination signifies a period of renewed energy, growth, and the opportunity for positive change. Embrace new opportunities and be open to personal and collective development.
Spring is linked to the liver and gallbladder. Incorporate fresh, seasonal foods like leafy greens, sprouts, and green tea to support these organs. Lightly cooked meals and sour flavors can help balance the Wood element.
Strategic Planning, Vision and Qi Flow through Exercise: Dragons are known for their visionary nature, while the Wood element promotes strategic planning. This year encourages us to set goals, plan clear strategies, and allow ourselves to follow our dreams. It is a good time to focus on long-term objectives and continue to plant and nurture the seeds for future well-being and ease.
The Liver is associated with the emotions anger and irritability. When the Liver Qi is stagnant we are more likely to feel anger or get stuck mentally. Engaging in gentle exercises like walking, yoga, tai chi or qigong to enhance the flow of Qi (life energy) within your body allowing the Liver to relax and the Qi to flow with more ease throughout your body. These practices promote flexibility, improve circulation, and align with the rejuvenating energy of spring.
Adaptability, Resilience and Herbal Support: Wood Dragons are adaptable and resilient creatures. Challenges are expected this year but if we approach them with a flexible mindset or can reframe the situation, a positive outcome may feel closer than we think. This year really asks us to use setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow. The ability to bend like bamboo will be a valuable asset in navigating the year's twists and turns. If we stay flexible the twists and turns might actually feel good.
Drinking dandelion and chrysanthemum tea, have detoxifying properties, supporting the liver's function.
Collaboration and Community: Dragons are social beings, and the Wood Dragon emphasizes collaboration and community. Fostering strong connections with others, whether in personal or professional spheres may be beneficial to ourselves and our communities.
Environmental Consciousness: The Wood Dragon's association with the Wood element underscores the importance of environmental awareness. This year may bring increased focus on sustainability, eco-friendly practices, and initiatives aimed at preserving the planet.
Spend time outdoors and connect with nature. Embrace the blossoming energy of spring by walking in nature, letting your bare feet touch the earth, or simply enjoying the beauty of blooming flowers and listening to the birds sing.
Health and Well-being: Dragons are symbols of vitality, but the Wood Dragon emphasizes the importance of holistic health. Prioritizing self-care and maintaining a balanced lifestyle, while listening to your body's needs will contribute to overall well-being in the year ahead.
Spring is a time of emotional renewal. Practicing mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing exercises to cultivate a strong mind-body connection will help us to adapt to a year full of twists and turns.
Creative Expression: Dragons are known for their creativity, and the Wood Dragon amplifies this aspect. Explore and express your creativity in various forms, whether through art, innovation, or problem-solving. Trust your inner physician and let your imagination soar.
Financial Health: Dragons are associated with good fortune and prosperity, and the Wood Dragon enhances this aspect. Money is another form of Qi. This could be a good year to re-evaluate our relationship with this form of Qi and look at what doesn't serve us and allow in what will enhance our financial Qi and well-being. This could be simplifying in all areas of our life, just taking out what doesn't work allows what does work to flow in.
Prioritize quality sleep to allow your body to recharge and harmonize with the natural rhythms of spring. Create a calming bedtime routine and maintain a consistent sleep schedule. This will allow the Qi in all areas of your life to be more vital and flow with ease.
Another vital aspect of the Wood Dragon year that I have been reflecting on often is, "Self-Reflection dedicated to the benefit of others." Too often in our culture self-reflection can be seen as self-indulgent and over-working and producing is highlighted. Without self-reflection we can't move forward with our vision or truly be of service to others or to the world at large. I will be doing a 7-day silent meditation retreat in June. What does self-reflection look like for you? Is it planning a retreat alone or with friends? Is it 2-5 minutes of breathing in the morning, a walk without a podcast, or journaling? Maybe it's having tea with a friend or a hike. Whatever it is for you, know it is a path to be of service to ourselves and our communities and necessary to make the changes in the world we want to see. Remember, small shifts can make radical change. It can be easy and joyful. Joy always helps move the Liver Qi!
May this Spring and the year of the Wood Dragon bring peace and vitality to our inner and outer worlds.
With Gratitude and Health,
Adrianna
P.S. Qi Gong and Tai Chi class coming soon
If you’d like to schedule a Spring Tune-up acupuncture appointment please click on this link: https://dradriannagonzalez.com/join
