Tapping Time

One of the earliest hints of spring’s awakening is the flow of sap in maple trees, a process that has been honored for centuries by those who tap trees to make syrup. This tradition, deeply connected to nature’s rhythms, beautifully aligns with the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which teaches us to live in harmony and flow with the seasons.

In TCM, spring is associated with the liver and the wood element, both of which govern the smooth flow of qi (energy) throughout the body. Just as sap rises within the trees, nourishing their growth, our own qi begins to move more freely after the stillness of winter. If this energy is blocked or sluggish, we may experience irritability, tension, or fatigue. We can support our transition into spring by promoting healthy circulation of qi with qigong, walking in nature, stretching, and eating seasonally fresh foods.

Pure maple syrup is not just a delicious treat; it’s a natural source of minerals like manganese and zinc, which support immune function and energy production. In TCM, small amounts of natural sweetness are believed to strengthen the Spleen and Stomach, the organs responsible for digestion and vitality.

Just as tree tapping must be done at the right time—when the days are warm and the nights are still cold—we, too, should honor the seasonal shift by adjusting our habits. Spring invites us to lighten our diets, incorporate more greens and sour flavors (which support Liver health), and spend more time outdoors to align with the rising energy of the season.

By observing nature’s wisdom—whether through tapping trees or tuning into our own inner flow—we cultivate harmony, vitality, and a deeper connection to the cycles that sustain us.

Join us for a class and awaken your qi from sleepy winter!

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