SPRING AWAKENING: EMBRACING THE EQUINOX
Lately I’ve been seeing buds reemerging on bare branches, bright green hues pushing through the rubble of last year’s fallen blooms, colorful crocuses bursting through the soil, and I’ve been relishing every ounce of daylight past dinner time. Spring is a season that offers regrowth, renewal, and revival; it serves as a refreshing reminder that not all things in nature bloom year-round, but rather, they undergo cycles of dormancy and rebirth, mirroring the ebb and flow of our own lives.
ORGAN: Spleen (Earth Element)
EMOTION: Contemplation
DIRECTION: South
COLOR: Yellow
TASTE: Sweet
Early spring beckons us to pay homage to the Spleen, supporting its functions to help foster a sense of balance within. Associated with the Earth element in Traditional Chinese Medicine, the Spleen plays a key role in digestion and grounding our energy.
Embracing the cardinal direction, South, we align ourselves with the transformative energy of the season, inviting contemplation and introspection. Whether it's through meditation facing the South or simply spending time outdoors, immersing ourselves in the rejuvenating power of nature allows its rhythms to guide our inner journeys.
Incorporating the color yellow into our surroundings and meals lets us honor the vibrancy and vitality of springtime. From golden daffodils to the vibrant colors of fresh produce, yellow serves as a beacon of renewal and growth, infusing our lives with warmth and optimism.
And as we savor the sweetness of spring through meals and experiences, we nourish our minds, bodies + spirits. Just as mother nature transforms the winter landscape into lush greenery, let’s allow spring’s sweetness to guide us on a journey of introspection, replenishment, renewal, and optimism.
TO PRACTICE
+ MINDFUL WALKS - Take a walk and go for as long as you can; walk until you simply don’t want to walk anymore. Focus on each step, every inhale and exhale, and the scenery changing as you stroll ahead.
+ DECLUTTER - Clearing your physical space can also clear mental clutter, creating room for new energy and opportunities to flow into your life. Set aside time to tidy up and simplify your surroundings, letting go of anything that doesn’t spark joy.
+ SET INTENTIONS - Light a candle and take a moment to set some thoughtful intentions for the season ahead, whether it’s expressing gratitude, manifesting creativity, or embracing change; Alysia Mazzella’s jar candle makes for a dreamy ritual.
+ QIGONG - these are instructor Kate Patterson’s favorite moves for releasing tension and stimulating circulation:
TO CONSUME
Embracing seasonal foods that align with the Earth element to further support groundedness + renewal this spring, like:
+ IN-SEASON FRUIT, VEGGIES, HERBS - Strawberries, apricots, kiwi, asparagus, peas, spinach, artichokes, mint, parsley + dill.
+ FARM FRESH EGGS - Rich in protein and essential nutrients, local farm-fresh eggs provide sustained energy and support overall health + well-being. Grab some from our Apothecary.
+ SPIRULINA - A nutrient-dense algae packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals. Add a spoonful to your morning smoothie for a natural boost of energy and vitality. We love Anima Mundi’s organic spirulina.
+ GREEN TEA - Known for its antioxidant properties and gentle caffeine boost.
APOTHECARY PICKS
+ HORMONE SOOTHING BATH SOAK by SURYA - This bath soak is one of my favorite ways to wind down and release any tension in my body + mind; also so great for supporting hormonal balance.
+ BALANCE by DR. ANNA GOLD - A wonderfully balancing elixir for anyone and everyone; this blend of adaptogenic herbs and botanicals is designed to promote equilibrium and calmness.
+ BOOB BALLS by COOKMA - These delicious, nutrient packed snack bites are amazing at supporting digestion and sustaining energy; for nursing moms, women looking for reproductive support, or anyone just looking for a quick sweet snack.
+ STRONG WOMAN SYRUP by TAPROOT - This herbal tonic is crafted with fortifying nutrients to support a healthy menstrual cycle, relieve menopausal symptoms, and aid overall reproductive health.
Signing out – as we experience nature's resurgence, let’s embrace the opportunity for personal growth and transformation that the springtime inspires.
x Dr. Sam