Spring into Vibrant Health with Acupuncture

The clocks have changed, the days are longer, and we’re into the full swing of spring here at Backstrong! The longer days bring with them a little extra motivation and desire to get moving. However, time changes and weather changes (especially wind) are not always easy for our bodies and minds to adjust to. In Traditional Chinese Medicine spring is the season of the liver and its natural cleansing time. Our appetites tend to decrease, making it a good time to fast or cleanse. The liver requires balance and harmony and is easily disturbed by the poor diets, lack of exercise, and negative emotions that sometimes come with the winter months.

Signs that your liver needs attention!

Liver disharmony can lead to numerous emotional and physical imbalances. Emotional signs include high stress, irritability, anger, depression, and PMS. Physical disturbances may include migraines, red/dry eyes, dizziness/vertigo, allergies, muscle tightness, cramps/spasms, indigestion, hypertension, insomnia, menstrual irregularities and skin disorders such as eczema and rashes. If you are noticing an increase in any of these, it might be a sign that your liver is in need of a tune up.

How to sooth the liver?

The liver likes to move! Movement keeps blood and energy circulating and helps prevent stagnation in the body. Early morning walks this time of year are a great way to get things moving. Staying away from foods that congest the liver such as saturated fats and hydrogenated oils is also helpful. Foods and herbs that prevent liver congestion include onions, ginger, turmeric and cumin. Eating smaller meals and increasing raw foods is also a good springtime adjustment. Lastly, the liver loves sour and bitter flavors! Apple cider vinegar is an excellent liver remedy, as is chamomile tea and dandelion root.

In addition to diet and exercise, acupuncture is an excellent treatment for symptoms related to liver disharmonies. It helps to reduce stress, calm the nervous system, relieve muscle tension and pain, reduce blood pressure, and regulate menstruation. As an added bonus it helps improve energy, sleep and immunity! It is an excellent adjunct to any health maintenance routine and will help keep you well all year round!

Yours in Health,

Lisa Bara Storey, R.Ac.

Registered Acupuncturist and Traditional Chinese Medicine

Backstrong Health Group

Lisa Bara Storey is backstrong Health Group’s fantastic acupuncturist, working out of our Quarry Park location. To book an appointment with her, call us at 403.257.9707 or visit our online booking page.

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