By AFEA member Mandy Laing
Is it just me or do you think everyone can feel the huge transformation of energy that the spring brings?
From the first sight of the daffodil shoots bursting out of the ground, invigorating and nourishing our souls to waking up and immediately noticing the lighter mornings making our hearts skip a beat with optimism. Warmer weather means that our winter coats can be hung up for another year and we see the young animals such as chicks and lambs being born, embracing a time for rejuvenation and regeneration.
‘I am not dead
said this plant
only dying
and hibernating
resting
and rejuvenating
in these cold winter days
energy stored
for that first day of spring…’ – Dennett.
What is energy?
For me, energy ‘qi’ (pronounced chi) is the universal vital force forming part of any living entity and Yin yang (you probably know the symbol!) is the concept of dualism in ancient Chinese philosophy. Yin yang are always opposites and these complementary forces together create a whole which constitutes a state of harmony and wellbeing.
‘Daylight and darkness, Spring balanced.’ – Mike Garofalo.
Yin yang is split into what the Chinese call the Five Elements which represent the 5 phases of ‘Qi’ which flows through nature and in our bodies. The Five elements have simple natural everyday names of Wood, Fire, Metal, Earth and Water. These elements represent the complete life cycle of any living being.
Acupuncture is one of the longest established forms of healthcare in the world. It was founded on the holistic concept that when there is a block or disruption in the flow of the body’s energy, it causes issues to our overall health and wellbeing. Our main organs have pathways of ‘qi’, which are called meridians. Thin needles are inserted to specific acupuncture points on the meridians to restore the natural flow, triggering the body’s healing response to ensure there is a physical, emotional and mental equilibrium.
The springtime is the season of the Wood Element, a time of big change, forceful and upward energy that holds purpose and structure.
Each element have characteristics that relate to a variety of sensations. The colour of the Wood element is green (like unripe fruits and plants). The sound is ‘shouting’ and the emotion is ‘anger’ which corresponds with energy that is rising, spreading and fast moving. The odour is ‘rancid’, this smell relates to the organs of the Wood element which are the Liver and the Gallbladder. If these organs are not functioning well within our body, it leaves an odour on the person. I know these examples don’t sound particularly nice! But it shows an important physical evidence of disharmony.
…someone with a major imbalance in the Wood element may not find it as easy to associate with the feelings and spirit of springtime: the power and qualities of the Wood element may not be as alive within them and accessible to them’ – J.R. Worsley.
For some people, they might not able to fully appreciate the beauty of spring. All the talk of growth and new beginnings can make people feel stuck in a rut rigid and overwhelmed. Completely uninspired, not even able to even consider making plans or formulate new ideas.
Getting back in the natural flow – Five Element Acupuncture – a perfect treatment choice
‘Five element acupuncture is wondrous in that it can go to the root of this and help the person transition smoothly from one season to the next’. Declan Rothwell. AFEA member.
Patients come into clinic for all sorts of reasons because Five Element acupuncture can help people who have physical, mental and emotional issues. The primary focus is always looking for the cause of the problem rather than only treating the symptoms. The most important aspect of the treatment is to uncover what is truly holding these patients back so I can help people move past the things that are standing in their way. They begin to feel the same joy they see in others, which can also include helping people embrace part of the springtime optimism and energy again. Fascinating hey!?
