The lilacs are in full bloom, their fragrance intoxicating. Early spring jolted our bodies awake like an alarm clock before sunrise. But now we are past that initial shock. Longer and warmer days give glimpses of summer days to come. The liver, which ‘predominates’ in spring, is fully awake now. If we are healthy, it is replenishing the organs, tissues and cells with blood and qi (vital life energy) to ensure vitality and a sense of well-being.
Chinese Medicine dictates that the liver is also responsible for emotional and spiritual functions. Each organ has a specific spirit, a non-physical essence that cultivates a particular virtue when the organ is healthy. The liver’s spirit is called the hun and is translated as the non-corporeal soul. It is the part of a person that continues to exist after death. It can mean the person’s good name, or ‘face,’ as it is referred to in Asian culture.
Kindness and benevolence are the virtues associated with the liver. An intact hun and healthy liver allow a person to be considerate and do good deeds because they come naturally. When we give our gifts from a healthy place, this positive feeling permeates every cell of our body. A healthy liver also engenders creative flow. So to all artists, business people, caregivers, and kids: do good things for others–your work and lives may prosper as a result. One good deed clothed in humility may just be the beginning of something much bigger than you know.
Check out Spring Health to review ways you can support your liver function. With simple life style change, is possible to improve not just physical health but spiritual well-being too. And be sure to take some time to get out and smell the lilacs!
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