Spring Is The Green Scene

Photo taken at Denver Botanic Gardens by Lady Allium.

The Wood Element

Spring can be about the best time in the garden! Warmer days coming on and the qualities of the Wood Element are evident in the rapid uprising energy of bulbs, plants, bushes, and trees. Just as the nature of Wood growth is not always smooth and even, unexpected bouts of hail can negatively impact the garden, but it’s amazing how resilient these plants can be!

Green Foods

As the color of the Wood Element is green, such vegetables are especially supportive of Wood and its organs of the Liver and Gall Bladder.  Go to the farmers market and select leafy greens like kale, lettuce, spinach, and parsley. Other green-colored vegetables include yummy sugar snap peas, avocado, asparagus, cucumber, broccoli, green beans, green peppers, and zucchini. Broccoli may be the most health-giving plant food of the bunch.

Although not as numerous, try green fruits like grapes, green apples, kiwi, honeydew melons, and limes.

Acupressure Points

I play with acupressure points daily for health benefits. Here are two points to focus on and benefit from in the Spring.

 LV3: The Liver source point lies between the first and second toes in a depression along the metatarsal bones.  (It may well be a sensitive spot.) LV3 is a main point for headaches, any problems with the eyes, and insomnia. (If we’re stressed out, we’re not going to sleep well.)

B40: The Gall Bladder source point is located below and in front of the outer ankle bone in a large hollow. GB40 is a significant point for strengthening the Gall Bladder, supporting decision-making, and taking action to move forward with confidence.

Start with LV3 on the left foot. Press and hold for up to 2-3 minutes. (You may want to start with 20-30 seconds and build up.) Use a pressure that’s comfortable for you.

Then go to GB40 on the left foot. Press and hold for up to 2-3 minutes. (You may want to start with 20-30 seconds and build up.)  Again, use a pressure that’s desirable for you.

Then, go to the right foot and do the same on Points LV3 and GB40.

Next, hold both LV3 and GB40 simultaneously, starting with the left foot and going on to the right foot. Holding onto these points concurrently acts synergistically and generates an impact stronger than pressing the points on their own.

Qi Gong Hike

Enhance the benefits of Spring by treating yourself to a refreshing, rejuvenating Qi Gong hike on a beautiful trail with like-minded people who want to enjoy what Qi Gong and Mother Nature have to offer.