Spring, and the elemental phase of Wood
We are now officially into Spring, a time of awakening from hibernation, renewed life, and growth. Warmth begins to return, and flora begins to bloom. It is also the time for our bodies and spirits to awaken and turn the page.
According to Chinese Medicine, nature is based on five elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. We humans are constitutionally and metaphysically manifestations of these elements.
Spring, according to the Five Elements Theory, is the time of the element – Wood.
Wood is associated with the Liver and Gallbladder and is also responsible for the muscles, tendons & ligaments
In nature, this represents the growth and evolution of all beings towards their highest potential. For us, Wood collectively represents the virtues of Self-Advocacy, Vision, Perspective, and Benevolence. Wood also represents anger, irritability, and frustration – emotions that can block the smooth flow of QI. In the body, the function of the Liver according to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
Anger is not necessarily bad. In this context, it can be an assertive energy. In balance, anger provides just enough impulse to assert oneself when appropriate; much like, in spring, a plant asserts energy to push through the earth and grow.
Out of balance, we may feel the compulsion to crush all obstacles or counter arguments, or conversely feel significantly timid, fearful of decisions, and assertiveness. Long-standing grudge and resentment can especially contribute to chronic stagnation of the Liver and Gallbladder Qi. This is a good reason to let go of our anger quickly. Grow beyond it and assert our higher potential, and focus on our inner peace and balance. This balance is the state our body wants to be in and where it functions at its best.
The ”Wood” element stretch is a good way to keep this meridian channel open and increase space to improve the flow or circulation of fluids and Qi.
“Wood” meditation can provide us with the opportunity to experience our body evolving and changing shape. It also allows us to physically access and appreciate our inner voice.
According to the Chinese Body Clock, the time of day for Wood is between 11 p.m. and 3 a.m. The Gallbladder is from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m., and the Liver is from 1 a.m. to 3 a.m. If you find yourself waking consistently during these times, it could indicate a Wood element issue. Sometimes, a simple touch or gentle holding of the physical location of these organs can help to calm or invigorate the channels. It may also help to do the following stretches and/or meditation.
Wood Element Stretch
To stretch the Liver and Gallbladder meridians –
• Sit on the floor with both legs extended out to either side
• Relax and spread your legs as far apart as you can (without overstretching or causing pain/cramping)
• Keep your knees straight so that your legs stay on the floor. (This is important.)
• Clasp your hands high over your head with palms turned upward
• Straighten your elbows and start leaning toward one side
While continuing to face forward, bend to the side so that your elbow moves towards the foot of the same side. (It is important not to face the foot – you should be facing forward and bending sideways)
You should feel a line of tension from along the outside of the leg you are leaning towards, down the inside of the opposite leg, and along the side of your body that is fully extended, as well as along the front of the body toward the side which is down. These lines of tension correspond to the Liver and Gallbladder Meridian channels.
When you exhale completely, these lines should ease, and the stretch should increase.
It is important to note that if the tension does not decrease, then you should ease up on the stretch. Only go as far as your body allows and then slightly increase after the full exhale. Do this three times on each side. With consistent practice you will notice an increase in your flexibility as well as lessening tension in the meridians.
Wood Element Stretch
Wood Meditation
Below is a simple meditation I learned during training for the Wood element. Assertiveness/Flexibility/Perspective
Lie down on your back. Take a moment to let your awareness fill your whole body, including your dense body and your energy body, within your arm’s reach.
Somewhere in your body is the place where your true voice lives, the voice of your inner wisdom and guidance, your reliable inner compass. Even if you have lost touch with this voice, it is ready to reveal itself to you now. Taking your whole body into account, ask yourself, “Where is my true voice?” and see what body part reveals itself to you. Feel into this place where your true voice lives. Imagine that this true voice speaks to you and says, “I am your true voice.” Be aware of the quality of speech, the tone of voice,and the sound of your true voice. Know that you can recognize and call on this voice any time you are in need of guidance.
Now, consider any difficult decision facing you right now in life. Some situation in which the way forward is not clear or you are not sure if you are making the right choice. Picture the scenario as clearly as you can, and imagine yourself in a situation where you need to make a decision.
Now, remember where your true voice is in your body. Ask your true voice, “What decision should I make?” and see what response comes from your true voice. Ou might get a clear articulation of the decision you need to make. Or, consider different possible ways forward and see which one gets a nod of agreement from your true self.
Now, take that feeling of reinforcement and agreement from your true self and spread that feeling through your whole body until the confidence in your decision infuses your entire body. Let this confidence fill your muscles all the way to the tips of your fingers and toes. Feel yourself changing shape as you move in the direction of this next life decision.
Knowing that you can come back to this cultivation at any time, come back to gentle awareness of yourself and your surroundings.
