Spring Cleaning
Spring is in the air and there is no better time than this change of seasons to commit to a cleanse- physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Many cultures, such as Lent in Catholicism, have a tradition of preparing for the Spring. Moving from the dark, cold, inward focused days of winter to the warm, outside, bright, yang days of Spring is such a huge shift for our bodies and minds. Shifts and changes are hard! We can facilitate that transition with a cleanse. Here are three ways to cleanse right now:
1. Physical cleanse- It’s so easy to get sick during this change of season. In Chicago, it’s 65 degrees one day, 35 the next! That is hard on the body and makes it easier for us to succumb to viruses floating around us. We can strengthen our bodies with a basic cleanse. My family and I do a complete cleanse and give up all sugar, coffee (even decaf), and alcohol. I started this two weeks ago (we observe Lent) and already I feel such a difference. My sleep is deeper, more restful and with fewer wake ups. My skin is clear and smooth. Those tiny red bumps are completely gone and it looks and feels much more hydrated. Sugar causes dampness in Chinese Medicine theory, which means the fluids in your body get sucked out of where they should be (illuminating your skin, for example) and into areas where they shouldn’t be- in your tummy causing bloating, or sinuses causing congestion, for example. During peri-menopause, we tend to notice that belly bulge even more than usual so cutting out sugar, and the carbs that often come with it in those yummy baked goods, helps to get rid of that bloating and discomfort. You also notice much more formed and complete stool, because again, those carbs and sugars that are hard to digest, contribute to loose and sometimes incomplete stools.
2. Media Cleanse- If you are like most people in our society, you have noticed an inordinate amount of anxiety in your life since the dawn of these little devices we call smart phones. Take a media cleanse for 6 weeks and commit to turning off your cell phone by 8pm at night and make sure it stays in a room other than your bedroom, preferably on another floor or as far away as possible from where you sleep. I recommitted to this a few weeks ago and have noticed that I am dreaming so much more than I have in a long time! My dreams are so vivid, engaging, and exciting! The distance between my brain and the phone is increasing my REM sleep which contributes to important neurological activities like emotional processing and brain development.
3. Spiritual Cleanse- Take one day per week to read and reflect on something that is spiritually inspiring. Sources for this could be talks from a meditation teacher that you enjoy, such as Tara Brach, or Joseph Goldstein. Poetry is also a beautiful source of spiritual inspiration. Writings on nature by Thoreau, remind us that the greatest wisdom can be witnessed in the natural world around us. Spend time absorbing the words of these great masters and then journal about what comes up for you. Is there a path you have always wanted your life to take, but have never had the time to reset your compass in that direction? See if you can take small steps to transform it during this time.
Wake up early, take a walk and brainstorm ways you might bring that path to fruition. Use the time and energy you would normally put into having your coffee/scone/drink and put it into reflection on your life and how your values can be more fully reflected in your life choices. My family and I went for a sunrise walk on the Lakeshore last week at 6am. We played on the beach, marveled at the giant glowing orb rising out of the water, discovered frozen sand, and planned our summer at the beach! It was so lovely and my kids are still talking about it.
If you need support in your transition into Spring, add some acupuncture to your routine. Acupuncture is helpful for allergies which have already started, as well as those change of season colds and viruses. If you have an injury keeping you from moving and enjoying life, come and see me for some relief.
If you have enjoyed acupuncture sessions with me, think about leaving us a review! It helps to spread the word about all the benefits of Chinese Medicine so more people can improve their quality of life. As always, I am so grateful for your support of my practice over the years. It is an honor to be on your health journey with you!