I want to talk about how you can incorporate the element of Wood into your diet this spring to maximize your health.
The movement of the Wood element and springtime is upward and outward.
Everything comes alive--plants sprout up from the ground, animals come out of hibernation, people spend more time outside walking, running, or playing in the sun. To make a smooth and healthy transition into the spring, it is best to adjust our diet to reflect these changes in the environment.
We want to eat foods that are light and fresh, that will support us in moving our bodies as the weather gets warmer. More specifically, our diet should consist of foods that have an expansive quality and will support our Liver, the organ system that is associated with the wood element and spring.
So, what should I eat?
Lots of fresh vegetables! Limit heavy, processed, fried foods, and excessive amounts of dairy as they are denser foods with downward and stagnating qualities. Remember, this time of year is all about movement and expansiveness.
Sprouts: Is there any better way to be in harmony with the environment and the sprouting plants of spring than by putting them right in your body?
Eat things like:
• Alfalfa sprouts, mung bean sprouts, sprouted grains Here's some more information on sprouting your own grains at home.
Green foods: Green is the color associated with the Liver/Wood system. By eating lots of green things, we are aligning ourselves with the energy of the spring.
Eat things like:
• Kale, dandelion/collard/mustard greens
Pungent and Sweet foods: These flavors are expansive in nature, and will support the increased movement of the spring.
Eat things like:
• Sweet flavor: Sweet potato, beets, cabbage
• Pungent flavor: Horseradish, ginger, black pepper
Small amounts of sour foods: Sour is the flavor that is associated with the Liver system and Wood element and will help to balance these systems in the body.
Eat things like:
• Citrus fruits (a slice of lemon or tablespoon of raw Apple Cider Vinegar with warm water in the morning), vinegar, pickles
Herbs to support the Wood Element within your body:
• Mint, Rosemary, Fennel, Basil, Dill
Try to incorporate some of the above into your daily eating habits, and notice how you feel. Happy Spring!
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