This is the Season of Spring and of Wood in the 5 Elements Energy World

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Are you or someone you know a Wood?

Defining characteristics might include…

*Down to earth

*Inflexible

*Steps up to injustices

*Anger management issues

*Organized (steps in to get ‘er done!)

*Arrogant, Insensitive to others’ feelings

*Genuine

*Impatient

*Sees the big picture

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, what was called the 5 elements, sometimes called rhythms or seasons, were documented thousands of years ago as being what ruled our days, lives, and even society.  This amazing cycle can be seen in our 24-hour day, over a calendar year, or over the course of our lifetime.  

We have all 5 elements in us but usually, there are one or two that determine our personalities, how we handle stress, and even how we get sick and heal.

Each element will be profiled in the coming months with accompanying video links on how to balance that particular element energetically which can be found below on my YouTube channel HERE.

For much more on the elements themselves and to take a quiz to see what your primary elements are click HERE to head to my 2-part Elements blog.

As with all of the elements, there is a healthy to unhealthy spectrum that exists. Our job is to find that happy middle space bringing in more of the best aspects and minimizing the not-so-pretty-ones.

And as with all elements, there are respective parts of the body and emotions that correspond to each.

Wood is the Season of Spring. It governs the Liver and Gallbladder. In the energy world, these organs also govern ligaments, tendons, and eyes. They also have a say in things like migraines, TMJ, and brittle nails.

The positive emotions are Assertiveness and Kindness (especially kindness to Self) while the negative emotions are Anger and Frustration.

Although too much assertiveness or too little anger can also mean Wood energy has an imbalance – after all, it was anger that brought about the Civil Rights movement plus many more calls to action for justice.

“Being angry at someone is like drinking poison and waiting for someone else to die.” – Buddhist Monk

This time of year we start to see the green sprouts of new growth after the hibernation of Winter. This is the energy to get things done (think Spring cleaning!!), create our plans then implement, and evaluate those plans with the logical, clarity of thought of a Wood.

Anyone having physical issues with their liver or gallbladder – or even things like acid reflux, chronic tendonitis, dry eyes or addictive tendencies can benefit from balancing their Wood aspects.

For anyone who holds grudges, tries to control everything, or is always on the defensive – this would be a great place to start.

In addition to the energy exercises in this month’s video for balancing Wood,

 – Do some stretching or exercises (to help prevent getting too rigid)

 – Give your Liver and Gallbladder a break and hold off on the alcohol and fatty, processed foods for 2 weeks and see how you feel.

– Organize one thing – a file cabinet drawer or your pantry to start.

 – Get involved in a cause – ask yourself, ‘What do I believe in?’

 – Bring in more GREEN to your outfits and your living space with the color of Wood – GREEN! 

 – And add more Wood to your life! Furniture, artwork, jewelry, and shoes.

 – Take a walk in the woods and if you’re feeling especially woo-woo, put your hand on a tree and ask it to help you balance your Wood energy! 

Click HERE for my 2-part Element Blog where you can take the quiz to see what elements are primary for you!