(19 min CLASS) Seasonal Living for April w/ Sophia Bouwens

April is the third and final month of the Spring season in the Traditional Chinese 5-Element calendar theory.

ELEMENT: Wood
ORGAN: Liver
EMOTION: anger, frustration, irritability

The element of this time of the year is WOOD - starts new things, sprouts forward, provides support and is healthy when it is flexible. Balancing flexibility with routine is very important this time of the year. In this video, Sophia dives deeply into an explanation of the 5-element theory and how this time of year relates to other elements, organ systems, as well as the seasons of the year. Working with this cyclical dynamic, she explains how to bring balance to our LIVER system, or WOOD element this time of the year with wisdoms from Classical Texts of Chinese Medicine for optimal balance.

Embodiment

LONGEVITY is the name of the game for April. Balancing routine with flexibility, while turning rhythms into habits to provide stability and routine, can be very beneficial this time of year. Especially relating to basic rhythms with regard to sleep, water intake, rest, and exercise.

First thing in the morning going for a walk outside to engage in the rhythm and transition of the season, and Spring Wood Energy. Warm up the tendons and ligaments by walking, running or biking, then do stretching immediately after - doing five Sun Salutations after a cardio workout or walk is a great way to integrate the movement of your muscles to support the health of tendons and bones.

GUARDING TO KEEP WARM:. We should work to address the weather in Spring similarly to how we do in the fall. 40F feels much different to us in March than it does in September, but objectively our bodies need to guard the same way. Be slow to take off layers, ensuring to wear layers until it feels a little uncomfortable to be wearing them. This can help protect our bodies and preserve energy.

Reflection Questions

Where and how can I bring more order and rhythm into my life?
What am I choosing to focus my energy on? How does what I’m focusing on have an impact on the creations that are blossoming from within me?

Suggestions

FOODS

Sour foods are excellent for supporting the system right now

Fermented foods (kimchee or sauerkraut)
Greens (arugula, dandelion, spinach, & sprouts)
Foods rich in vitamin B and Iron
Citrus (lemon, lime)
Vinegars
Ginger
Moderation around indulgences like sweets and alcohol

ACTIVITIES

Key word: Cardio

Shoulder Stretching
Dance
Vinyasa Yoga
Running
Morning walks!

MEET YOUR TEACHER

Sophia Bouwens, L.Ac, is a Neurological Acupuncturist and Traumatic Brain Injury survivor who is on a mission to help others heal and empower their nervous system and bodies. She uses a unique integration of Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture and Functional Neurology to produce profound effects and positive changes in brain function and body connection.

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