Anger is the emotion associated with the Wood Element and the Springtime in Traditional Chinese Medicine. For most of us, we consider anger a bad emotion, something to avoid or get rid of, so why would it be one that TCM would shine a light on? Well, no emotion is inherently good or bad, it’s how we deal with challenging emotions that can end up hurting ourselves or those we love.
According to TCM, Springtime is a very Yang time of year, full of new energy and growth in nature, and in us. In humans, when growth or change occurs in our lives, there often is a catalyst, something we’re not satisfied with or something we’re inspired by, something compelling enough to move us to make a change. Anger can be a very compelling emotion. When Anger is channeled into action, it can be very powerful. All of this to say, TCM connects the high energy and potential growth of Springtime with anger, a strong catalyst for growth if it’s acknowledged and channeled well. Of course, it’s not a given that when we feel anger, we’ll be able to use it to catalyze an important change or even recognize why we’re angry in the first place. Too much anger can also cause harm to the physical body over time. One of the most common causes of anger, according to TCM, is chronic or acute stress resulting in energy stagnation, especially in the Liver. The Liver is responsible for the healthy flow of Qi around the body. When Qi is stuck in our bodies, emotions too can become stuck, and hard to express or even identify. According to TCM, there are several modalities that can help the flow of Qi and emotion in our bodies.
- Acupuncture is a great modality for supporting the healthy flow of qi through the Liver, and the entire body/mind.
- Stretching helps release blood and Qi through the body and into the tendons, maintaining a healthy physical body.
- Eye exercises help support the health of the Liver and vice versa. The Liver is partly responsible for the function of the eyes. Remember to take breaks from looking at computer or phone screens throughout the day. (protect yourself from blue light!)
- Eating greens helps maintain healthy Liver function and the movement of Qi. Think: Kale, Collards, Parsley, Cilantro, Romaine, Basil, Celery, etc.
- Spending time outside, especially combined with exercise, helps Qi movement and overall mental health…..fresh air, Vitamin D, deep breathing…..
Qi stagnation is very common, especially in Springtime as we move out of the lower energy of winter. But when Qi is flowing smoothly, we can fully engage with all the opportunities Springtime can provide. Getting seasonal Acupuncture tune-ups is a great way to stay healthy all year long. Call me today for an appointment!
Dr. Mindy Boxer is a holistic practitioner who has grown into her specialties in an organic way. Understanding a range of disciplines allows her to integrate the wisdom of Ancient healing in combination with the most recent innovations in Scientific research. This dynamic blend has enabled Dr. Boxer to help patients in the prevention and treatment of disease for over 25 years.
At age 15, Dr. Boxer began her lifelong practice of Yoga & Meditation, read many Nutrition books, began Juicing her Vegetables, and explored and all Raw Diet. Recognizing the importance of Nutrition in overall health, she earned her Ph.D. in 1986 in Nutrition and Human Behavior, providing her with a solid foundation to counsel and educate patients on how to attain health and vitality.
Her informative Lectures and appetizing Cooking Classes were the perfect forum to educate the community about the effects of food on Mood and Behavior, as well as in innovative ways to balance Body Chemistry in order to achieve overall well being.
Sensing a need to expand her training and understanding of the human body as a whole system, Dr. Boxer continued her studies in Acupuncture & Chinese Herbal Medicine, and in 1993 earned a Masters Degree in Traditional Oriental Medicine. She is licensed by the Medical Board of the State of California in Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine and is also licensed by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine.
These diverse disciplines give Dr. Boxer a unique view of the human body and how to keep it functioning in an optimal manner. Her practice of Acupuncture, Chinese Herbs and Functional Nutrition have a profound effect on Hormonal balance, Rejuvenation, and Immune system enhancement.
Dr. Boxer has a particularly keen understanding of Women’s Health issues including Gynecological irregularity, PMS, Fertility, IUI & UVF support, Healthy Pregnancy & Delivery, and Menopausal issues. Her interest in the human body as a dynamic system has given her the understanding to deal with such problems as improper Digestion and elimination, Cancer Support, Allergies, back pain, tight neck and shoulders, carpal tunnel syndrome, respiratory distress, chronic fatigue, Insomnia, Stress, Anxiety and Depression.
She has also studied the art and science of Homeopathy, earning her Diplomate in Homeopathy from the Hahnemann College of Homeopathy in 1995. This allows her to treat the whole person — physically, mentally, emotionally.