The Wood element
Spring is associated with the wood element. Just like the branches of a tree, the wood element represents the spirit of outward movement, growth and rejuvenation. It is a good time to ask yourself what you would like to see flourish this season?

Liver & Gallbladder health
The prominent organs in spring are the Liver and Gallbladder. The Liver is responsible for the smooth flow of Qi in the body and is one of the most important organs for cleansing and energising the body. The Gallbladder is responsible for storing and excreting bile and governs planning, decision-making and inspiration.
These organs are particularly sensitive to long-held emotions and stress, which can cause Qi to stagnate. Feelings of anger, irritability and depression are all signs of stagnation, as well as mood swings, poor sleep, migraines, pain, tension, worsening PMS and period pain, indigestion, skin flare-ups, eye issues… All of which can be supported by acupuncture which aims to restore balance and the smooth flow of Qi.
 
The colour of spring is green and the taste of spring is sour
 In your diet, this means increasing the amounts of fresh, leafy greens and sprouts of new growth such as nettles, watercress, chickweed, chard, and dandelion, as well as sour foods such as lemons, sorrel and apple cider vinegar. Your food can also be prepared in a lighter and simpler way such as gentle simmering or steaming.
 
Moderate exercise
The Liver stores blood during periods of rest and then releases it to the muscles in times of activity, maintaining their health and flexibility. The Liver also controls the sinews (including tendons) in the body, so keeping them flexible and nourished is key to staying agile and healthy this season. Incorporate some big morning and evening stretches into your routine – picture a big bear coming out from hibernation.
A brisk walk to the woods is a great way of getting your Qi flowing and connecting with your Wood element. Those cold and windy days are still lurking though so make sure you layer up! Qi Gong, yoga and Tai Chi are also lovely ways of moving your Qi.

Spring is a time of rising Yang energy. Nature is stirring all around us and we may start to feel more energised too. Spring relates to Wood, from which life grows, so this practice will nourish the Liver and Gallbladder meridian channels that relate to Wood. Spring can be a good time to start making creative plans and putting things into action.
 

🌼 Learn a simple Qi Gong practice for Spring to help calm the nervous system + eliminate stress, by incorporating breathwork through movement.
🌺 Through embodied experience + learning gain a deeper understanding of how Yin Yoga can benefit both the Physical and Energetic body.
🌼 Learn about the Chinese medicine model and the element of Wood relates to Spring.
🌺 Learn how the energy channels relate to our emotions.
🌼 Develop a toolkit to support your mental + emotional health through Qi Gong, Breathwork, Meditation, Acupressure points and Yin Yoga practice.
🌺 Leave feeling grounded and calm and more resilient.
 
Yin Yoga is a floor-based Yoga practice of long held shapes, typically 3 to 5 minutes. The practice targets the deep fascia of the body which helps to release tension and create ease within the body. When we practice Yin Yoga we can stimulate the meridian channels. This can support our emotions as well; by releasing stuck or stagnant Qi.  This workshop will incorporate a short Qi Gong practice at the beginning. Qi Gong means ‘life energy  cultivation’. Qi Gong is a standing practice of slow flowing, rhythmic movements that help to create a calm meditative state, move the lymphatic system and nourish the organs.