Spring is upon us, and with it comes the vibrant energy of the Wood Element! At Source Acupuncture, we’re excited to guide you into this season of growth, renewal, and expansive energy. Just like the trees stretch their branches towards the sun, this is a time for YOU to embrace change, growth, and new possibilities.

🌳 The Wood Element: Growth, Vision, and Action

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Wood Element is all about expansion, creativity, and renewal. Governed by the Liver and Gallbladder, this element is associated with our ability to plan, create, and move forward. Just like a tree growing from a small seed, Wood energy is about setting roots and reaching towards new heights.

When Wood is in balance, you’ll feel energized, motivated, and aligned with your goals. But when it’s out of balance, you might feel stuck, frustrated, or overwhelmed by unprocessed emotions. As spring is the season for renewal, it’s the perfect time to check in with your Wood energy — physically, mentally, and emotionally.

🌿 Activating Wood Energy with Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a powerful tool for stimulating the Wood Element and helping the liver and gallbladder function at their best. Here are some key acupuncture points that we focus on at Source to activate your body’s natural spring energy:

Liver 3 (Taichong): Located on the top of the foot, between the first and second toes, this point is the “command” point for the Liver. It helps clear stagnation, relieve stress, and free up the flow of energy (Qi) throughout your body.

Gallbladder 34 (Yanglingquan): Situated just below the knee on the outer side of the leg, this point is perfect for relieving tension and promoting the smooth flow of Qi, particularly in your tendons and joints. It’s great for clearing blockages and helping you feel more flexible — both physically and emotionally.

Liver 14 (Qimen): Found below the ribcage on the right side, this point is key for harmonizing the Liver and clearing emotional stagnation. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed or frustrated, this point can help release pent-up energy and bring clarity to your mind.

🌱 By stimulating these key points, we help bring your Wood Element into harmony, allowing for a smoother flow of energy and a renewed sense of purpose and direction.

Is Liver Stagnation Affecting You?

If you are experiencing symptoms like irritability, digestive discomfort, or emotional blockages, your Liver Qi may need some support. Acupuncture is a safe and effective way to restore balance, relieve stress, and encourage emotional release. Book a treatment with us today and take the first step toward restoring the flow of energy in your body, mind, and spirit!

🍋 Liver & Gallbladder Cleansing Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of beetroot (fresh or steamed) – rich in antioxidants and supports liver detoxification.
• 1/2 cup of spinach or kale – packed with chlorophyll that helps detox the liver.
• 1/2 lemon (juiced) – helps alkalize the body and stimulate bile production, which is important for gallbladder health.
• 1 tbsp of olive oil – healthy fat that aids in gallbladder function and bile production.
• 1/4 tsp of turmeric – has anti-inflammatory properties and supports liver detoxification.
• 1 small apple (optional) – adds natural sweetness and pectin, which is great for bile production.
• 1-inch piece of ginger – supports digestion and can help stimulate bile flow.
• 1 cup of coconut water – hydrating and full of electrolytes, promoting overall liver and gallbladder health.

Instructions:

1. Add all ingredients (beetroot, spinach or kale, lemon juice, olive oil, turmeric, apple, ginger, and coconut water) into a blender.
2. Blend until smooth.
3. Pour into a glass and drink this nourishing smoothie in the morning for a detoxifying boost.

Why it works:

• Beetroot supports liver detoxification and reduces inflammation.
• Spinach/Kale is rich in antioxidants and chlorophyll that help cleanse the liver and gallbladder.
• Lemon helps stimulate bile production, aiding in digestion and fat breakdown.
• Turmeric has powerful anti-inflammatory properties, which help the liver and gallbladder function more efficiently.
• Ginger is great for digestion and stimulating bile flow.
• Olive oil helps your gallbladder secrete bile, which is essential for digesting fats.