Beginning of Spring

• East Wind Liberates from Icy Shackles

• Hibernating Insects Begin to Stir

• Fish Rise Up to the Ice

The time of Imbolc, the halfway point between the winter solstice and the vernal equinox, starting at the beginning of February. Yang’s influence is growing out of the depths of Yin, the body must mimic that same expansion of the natural world. The weather brings about the winds of change, and it is best to stay guarded from these forces to promote optimum vitality at this time. Protect against Wind by conturing to wear warm layers and a scarf, start eating clear foods that are still nourishing like pork, leeks, garlic, bone broth. Scalp combing (shu fa) is a therapeutic self-practice combing the fingers along the scalp to stimulate growth focusing on the head as the most Yang part of the body as well as the immune system (wei qi) to expel wind.

Vernal Equinox

• Swallows Arrive

• Thunder Starts Resounding

• Beginning of Lightning

The time of true balance of Yin and Yang, day is completely equal with night. The winds have brought in more Yang activity from the heavens, i.e. thunder and lightning. Nourishing the liver with foods that spring up from the ground… spring onions, scallion, ginger… also vinegar-rich and pickled foods leftover from the stores of winter. Avoid fatty and salty meats that can be too heavy, and this is a good time to keep any strong emotions in check and ease back on any excessive sexual activity. Sluggish digestion, erratic emotions and adrenal fatigue are all sign of imbalance at this time and can be mediated by cleansing and acupuncture. Rosebud Tea (mei gua hua cha) can be drunk to regulate and smooth liver qi stagnation.

Clear & Bright

• Tung Trees Begin to Blossom

• Field Voles Transform into Quails

• Rainbows Begin to Appear