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| Balancing Nutrition with the Seasons By Katie Lee, LMFT, L.Ac. May 2009
05-01-2009
Spring into Summer and Health! Balancing Nutrition with the Seasons
By Katie Lee, LMFT, L.Ac.
(Adapted from Healing with Whole Foods by Paul Pitchford)
The ancient Chinese believed that the seasons - Winter, Spring, Summer,
Fall and the transition into each, have a profound cyclic effect on our growth and
well-being. In fact, early humans instinctually attuned to and lived In harmony
with the seasons, leading to a balanced and joyful nature. Although the technological expansion of our world has blunted our innate awareness of seasonal change, through education and practice we can learn to hear the voices of nature and, following our intuition, become balanced in accordance with the seasons once again.
On May 1st we will be mid-way through Spring and beginning to feel the expansion and activity of Summer. Spring is a new beginning – we rise earlier with the sun; shake off the deep slumber of Winter; and activate our stores of energy. Plant life pushes its way outward and upward, nourishing our eyes and senses with green growth and fresh scents. Animals and humans alike mate with renewed fervor and passion.
Our natural physical response to this renewal of life is one of physical and spiritual regeneration. Our appetites decrease and our bodies cleanse themselves of food residues and excessive desires and emotions. Indeed, our vision will clear, our tendons will strengthen and we will see and feel the world in new ways.
Following the rejuvenation of Spring, Summer is a period of luxurious growth, brightness and activity. It is a time to wake early in the morning, reaching for the sun as our do gardens. It is a time to work, play, travel, be joyful and grow in service. The bounty of the world enters and enlivens us during the Summer.
To assist in the transformation through the remainder of the Spring and into the Summer, it’s helpful to do a few things:
1) Eat Light, Eat Green – The diet we eat in Spring should be the lightest of the year, including foods that emphasize the ascending and expansive nature of Spring. Young plants and shoots, fresh greens and sprouts, young beets, carrots, grains, legumes and seeds, basil, fennel, dill marjoram, rosemary and mint tea with honey are all desirable.
2) Cook Shorter, Heat Higher – While many turn to raw foods for body renewal in the Spring, for most people this diet is difficult to digest. It is best to steam or sauté fresh veggies on high heat for a short time.
3) Stretch – The liver, the organ associated with Spring, controls the tendons. According to Chinese Medicine, the liver stores blood as we rest and then releases the blood into the tendons in times of activity, maintaining tendon health and flexibility. A morning stretch, Yoga, Tai Qi or Qi Gong will help maintain our musculoskeletal health.
4) Rest Your Eyes – In Chinese Medicine, the liver opens into the eyes. Take frequent breaks from looking at computer screens, televisions and books to rest and nourish your eyes.
5) Increase Activity – When our liver is functioning well, our bodies and our emotions run smoothly. And vice-versa. So for optimum health, a calm mind and the smooth flow of energy throughout your body – move! Walking and hiking in nature are particularly healthful during the Spring.
As we get close to the Summer season some helpful tips include:
Eat - less and eat lightly, particularly brightly colored fruits and vegetables.
Cook - lightly and add a bit of spice or fire to a daily meal. The fire helps attune our bodies to the natural heat of the season.
Continue to - cook foods over very high heat for a short time.
Cook with - less salt and more water.
Eat cooling foods - including: salad, fruit, cucumbers, apples, watermelon, and lemons.
Drink - hot liquids and take warm showers to cool the body.
Remember, coldness causes contraction and interferes especially with digestion. Though difficult, it’s best to avoid iced drinks and ice cream.
The heart is our emotional center - and it is the organ associated with Summer. One method to balance our heart is by increasing awareness of the words we speak. Speech is said to arise from the heart and by strengthening speech we empower the heart and calm the mind.
Finally, Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine can help improve the overall health of your liver and heart as well as treat stress, anger, depression and insomnia, which are often associated with liver and heart qi disharmonies. Seasonal Acupuncture four times yearly tonifies the organ systems and can correct minor annoyances before they become serious health issues. Schedule an appointment for an Acupuncture treatment and stay healthy this Spring and Summer!
Katie Lee is the newest healer at the Centre for Life. As a Licensed Psychotherapist and a Licensed Acupuncturist Katie is uniquely able to link body, mind and spirit helping to engender fully integrated health. To speak with her further about aligning your body with the season’s or to schedule an Acupuncture or Psychotherapy appointment, contact her at ktleeacutherapy@yahoo.com or call her at 310-614-0637.
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