Get down and clean up
For those of us in the Northern Hemisphere spring is just around the corner which traditionally means a good clear out. A Survey carried out by the Soap and Detergent Association in the USA revealed that 98% of us feel good about ourselves when our house is clean and 60% say that spring is the best time to rid the house of dirt and clutter.
The same is true in Chinese Medicine, Spring is traditionally the time to clear the mind and body of unwanted build ups, to stretch and move with the upward dynamic energy of Spring. The organs traditionally associated with this energy and time of year are the Liver and Gallbladder. Their job is to clear the body of toxins, aid flexibility and flow in the body.
A common problem arising when these organs are not taken care of are Gall Stones. Each year in the United States, approximately 1 million people are newly diagnosed with gallstones and approximately half of these cases, the Gallbladder will be removed. However this need not be the case, many foods can help the gallbladder dissolve gall stones.
In Chinese medicine, the colour green is linked to the Liver and Gallbladder and all green foods will help Gallbladder function. So spinach, watercress, broccoli and kale work really well. Apples and pears are used to moisten pathways and soften hard build ups such as Gallstones in the body .
Fresh lemon juice contains the phytochemical limonene which improves liver function so a simple splash of lemon juice in hot water will wake up the Gall bladder and Liver, Spring Cleaning the body from the inside out.
Juicing is an ideal way to improve liver function as it increases the release of enzymes within the body which can sometimes be lost through cooking. Enzymes are essential catalysts for all chemical reactions such as digestion, immunity, regeneration and metabolic function.
Some enzymes are produced within the body and some come from the food we eat and are key to nutrient absorption. Most raw, fresh pressed juices are easily absorbed by the body meaning all that super food is getting to working for you instantly.
The following is a perfect liver cleansing juice as it contains all of the above three groups. Feel free to change the amounts to suit your palate. . If you want to increase the power of this juice sprinkle over a teaspoon of spiriulina which is is one of the best plant sources of vitamin B12 essential for the functioning of cells and tryptophan which helps the body produce the anti-stress chemical seratonin
- 1 large carrot
- 2 stalks celery
- 1 large handful flat leaf parsley
- 1 lemon
- 1 red apple
Flat leaf parsley is always good to grow and have around. It contains high amounts of vitamin C, A, chlorophyll, calcium, magnesium and iron. Add a handful to sandwiches, salads or juices. Its flavour is so mild you can chop it and toss it through cooked rice or potatoes.
Join Us and Try a Free Class
We offer a free class at the end of the month so you can try Chi Flow before you join.
Membership is only €39 per month, with over 20 classes included each month.
After three months, your subscription halves to €20, making it the most affordable Parkinson’s-friendly Qi Gong programme available online.
You are warmly welcome to practise with us and discover your own flow.
💗 Ready to Join?
Click here to become a member of Chi Flow with Jo → CLICK HERE
Or drop in for a class and feel it for yourself (sign up below). Join the Chi Flow with Jo community for live sessions, practice, and support.
You don’t need to have it all worked out.
You just need something gentle to lean into, one day at a time.
Self-administered acupressure or Chinese Medicine is not a substitute for visits to qualified healthcare practitioners.
Knowing how to treat yourself and your loved ones with complimentary therapies like acupressure can be greatly beneficial and convenient. However, for serious and chronic conditions, you’ll want to visit an Shiatsu therapist / Acupuncturist or other qualified healthcare practitioner who can develop a treatment plan based on your unique medical history and combination of symptoms.
The information provided should not be considered medical advice.