Editor’s note: We are pleased to feature the writings of staff acupuncturist Lorraine Glenn, MSTCM, DiplOM, LAc in the upcoming weeks. Stay tuned via our newsletter for more insights from Lorraine on issues of health and wellness.
During one of the snow storms in the past few months, I saw a symbol of the intensity of winter weather embodied in the discarded remnants of broken snow shovels stuffed into trash cans. After the third time I recognized a broken shovel handle reaching for the sky, I took note of how so many had fallen to pieces under the pressure of removing snow. As we begin to look forward to thawing out, here are a few things to consider that will help us finish this last part of winter.
Traditional Chinese Medicine teaches us that the transition from any season to the next is a major adjustment for the body. Ancient wisdom from the Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Medicine reminds us that; “Health and well-being can only be achieved by remaining centered with one’s spirit…adapting to changing seasonal influences…” The changing weather can be a reflection of the many changes in our lives that we have almost no control over, geo-political, environmental, social transformations are always happening. Changes to our daily routine, how we eat and what we do for rest and rejuvenation can ensure balance during this time. Let’s look at some ideas for keeping your body and your home in tune and ready for the next seasonal shift.
Inside of your body stress and its effects need to stay minimal. Staying healthy on the inside usually starts with digestion. For example, if you know that symptoms of seasonal allergies are around the corner for you; working on boosting your gut health with local raw honey and seasonal foods beginning now instead of waiting until the weather changes gives your body more time to adjust. I highly recommend reading about pickled garlic and other uses for raw honey here https://www.healthline.com/health/garlic-and-honey
Supplements like digestive enzymes are a great way to ensure you are absorbing the nutrients you work hard to put into your body. With the right micronutrients and hydration you can stop inflammation that would eventually become sinus problems or fatigue.
Inside your home the environment may need to be refreshed after spending more time trying to stay warm and cozy. If you can open doors and windows during clear days when the air is warm in the afternoon. Check and replace your air filters, especially your air purifiers filters and any water filters. Washing and cleaning linens that have been used all winter, large items and pillows may all have dust and dirt that have accumulated. Another way to get some new energy flowing indoors is to rearrange some furniture or reorganize a storage area. Reevaluating your Feng Shui during some spring cleaning is an easy way to create a sense of renewal and reestablish your emotional connection to your living space. You can read more about incorporating Feng Shui into your spring cleaning here
and here
Outside of the home, start gathering what you need to feel supported in all the spaces you frequent. You may want to add some color or texture where you work, change your playlist for your commute, or make time for a new exercise hack. Connect with your community outside! Extroverts can explore the many year round farmers markets in the DC area, introverts can garden and support the pollinator ecosystem from potted plants or a green space at home. Learn more about a market near you at
Read about how to support local pollinators out of a container garden here
The energy of spring is expansive and warm. Sustainable growth comes with careful cultivation. Support your body through this time of change and renewal to reap the benefits all year long.
