Spring as a Portal: Growth and Transformation

Can you feel it? That subtle change in the air? The light that lingers a little longer, the first buds cautiously appearing on branches, and perhaps even that inexplicable feeling of restlessness or longing for renewal bubbling up inside you.

Spring is on the horizon, and with it comes a shift in energy not only in our surroundings but also within ourselves. After months of turning inward, of rest and reflection, nature invites us to step outward again—both literally and figuratively.

From Water to Wood: An Energetic Shift

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), we are now experiencing an important transition: from the water element of winter to the wood element of Spring. This shift is far from subtle if we consciously open ourselves to it.

The water element has invited us over the past months to rest, reflect, and explore our depths. It has helped us replenish our reserves and listen to the wisdom of our inner voice. Just like a seed in the dark, moist earth, we have quietly gathered strength for what lies ahead.

Now the wood element calls us to emerge from this rest and grow upward again—like young shoots breaking through the soil in search of light. The wood element is connected to the liver and gallbladder meridians, which become extra active now. These energy pathways give us:

• Vision and direction: The ability to look forward and make plans

• Decisiveness: The courage to make choices and embark on new paths

• Flexibility: The ability to bend rather than break

• Creative energy: The power to shape new ideas

  
  

At the same time, according to Ayurveda—the ancient Indian health science—this period is still predominantly governed by Kapha energy. This energy, associated with earth and water, can create a feeling of heaviness or sluggishness as we try to get moving. Like a bear awakening from hibernation, we may sometimes feel lethargic or tired as we slowly stretch our limbs and prepare for a new season of activity.

Anger as a Sacred Practice: The Fire that Drives Spring

One of the most fascinating aspects of this seasonal transition is its relationship with our emotions—particularly with anger and frustration. In TCM, the liver is associated with these emotions, and not coincidentally, they often surface more strongly during spring.

But what if I told you that this anger—which we so often suppress, ignore, or label as 'negative'—could actually be a sacred practice? A portal to freedom and authenticity?

Unexpressed frustrations tend to turn inward, like a river that gets blocked and eventually flows back, damaging its own banks. Pent-up emotions are like a ball you try to hold underwater; eventually, the force of the water causes the ball to shoot upward—often with a force that surprises us.

In my own journey, I've learned that anger—when we consciously work with it—can be a powerful catalyst for growth and change. It can help us:

• Recognize and honour our boundaries

• Gain clarity about what we truly want and need

• Find the energy to get moving

• Break patterns that no longer serve us

  
  

It's not about expressing our anger unrestrained or burdening others with it. It's about acknowledging this emotion as a wise messenger trying to tell us something important. When we learn to listen to this message, we can transform the energy of anger into a constructive force.

Embracing Spring Energy: Practical Tips

How can we channel this natural Spring energy in a healthy way? Here are some practical tools that can help you live in harmony with this season:

1. Dry Brushing: Breaking Through Stagnation

Dry brushing is a powerful technique that helps to liquefy the accumulated Kapha energy of winter—which can feel like 'ice' in our system. When these reserves begin to melt, toxins are released that need to be eliminated through our lymphatic system.

With a special dry brush, sweep over your dry skin, always directing the strokes toward the heart. The best time for this is in the morning after waking up and before showering. For extra care, you can apply warm sesame oil in between for a gentle abhyanga (self-massage).

Note: avoid dry brushing if you have open wounds or sensitive skin. Remember that according to Ayurveda, no two bodies are the same—for specific advice, it's advisable to consult an Ayurvedic specialist.

2. Adjusting Rhythm to Seasonal Energy

According to Ayurveda, Kapha energy dominates between 6 and 10 AM. This energy can feel heavy and slow. There are two strategies to work with this:

• Wake up before 6 AM to get ahead of the heavier Kapha time

• Use the Kapha time (6-10 AM) for movement and exercise, which helps break through this sluggish energy

  
  

Have you experienced burnout or do you feel depleted? Then above all, listen to your body and don't force anything. Rest remains essential, even in spring.

3. Space for Emotional and Creative Expression

The wood element of spring invites us to grow and express ourselves. Consciously create space for creative expression and exploring emotions that may have been stored during winter. Even a small daily practice can help energy flow.

Moving with the Seasons at Studio Tree of Life

At Studio Tree of Life, I believe in the importance of living in harmony with natural cycles. Our environment is constantly changing, and so do we.

In my yoga classes, I consciously attune to the energy of the season. In spring, this means working with poses and sequences that:

• Stimulate the liver and gallbladder meridians

• Emphasize gentle side bends and twists

• Create space for growth and renewal

• Find balance between activity and rest

  
  

I warmly invite you to participate in this seasonal yoga practice, where we can discover together how it feels to move with the wisdom of nature.

For those who need a more personalized approach, I also offer one-on-one sessions. In these individual meetings, we can delve deeper into your specific questions and needs. Perhaps you're struggling with suppressed emotions like anger, or you're looking for ways to let your creative energy flow. Together, we create a safe space where you can explore what works for you in this phase of your life.

Have you already taken a moment to feel the spring sunshine on your skin? Nature is awakening from its winter sleep and invites us to move with this new energy. In the coming weeks and months, I hope to welcome you to the studio, where we can explore and celebrate this beautiful time of transformation together.

With warm regards,

Manoek - Studio Tree Of Life