Our main mission at Haynes Acupuncture on the Gold Coast is to restore all patients to full health, whether that is physically, mentally or emotionally. The clinic offers a treatment of the whole person, taking the time to establish the cause of specific problems or uncertainties then developing a step-by-step plan to help you.

Spring is well and truly here and all over the place we’re switching up our clothes, amping up our exercise programs and lightening our diets. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), spring is perfect for creating, cleansing, activity, movement, growth, and renewal.

The liver is responsible for maintaining the smooth flow of Qi (energy) and blood. It also helps our emotions flow smoothly, so mood swings or anger and bad moods can come from unbalanced liver Qi. Some other symptoms are headaches at the top of the head, high blood pressure, tendon problems and eye issues, such as blurry vision, floaters, dry or itchy eyes, or a change in vision. Since the liver has a close relationship with the Stomach, digestive issues like indigestion, bloating and burping can occur, especially in springtime.

images 2In Chinese Medicine, the liver is represented in the wood element of Spring so it is the best time for liver cleansing and health regimens! The best way to keep the liver happy, healthy and able to do its job is through a nutritious and seasonally focused diet, observing our emotions and releasing them healthfully, as well as trying to ensure you get to bed by 11 pm.

Simple Tips for Liver Health

  1. Foods that the liver loves:

The colour green is associated with the liver and hence, green foods are particularly good for this organ.

  • Herbs: basil, fennel, marjoram, rosemary, caraway, dill, bay leaf, turmeric, ginger, black pepper, horseradish, mint, lemon balm, coriander
  • Complex carbohydrates: grains, legumes, seeds
  • Vegetables: beetroot, carrots, watercress, onions, mustard greens, celery
  • Fruits: lemon, lime, grapefruit, oranges
  • Bitter foods: rye, romaine lettuce, asparagus, amaranth, quinoa, alfalfa, citrus peel
  • Teas: peppermint tea, green tea, chrysanthemum tea
  • Liver cleansing herbs: dandelion root, milk thistle seeds, chamomile flowers
  • Liver detoxifying foods: mung beans and their sprouts, lettuce, cucumber, watercress, seaweeds, celery, millet, tofu, plum, chlorophyll rich foods, mushrooms, rhubarb root, radish, daikon radish

  1. Rebalance and de-stress:

Try and rebalance your lifestyle, including work commitments and stress. Meditation and deep breathing practises have shown to be highly valuable in reducing stress levels.

  1. Exercise:

Exercise is essential for our physical and emotional health. It does not have to be a heavy gym workout every day. Do something that you enjoy, e.g. walking at a moderate pace for thirty minutes and if possible, get outdoors in nature!

  1. Music:

Listening to soft music in the background or with meditation, as this soothes the liver.

  1. Avoid alcohol:

Avoid alcohol! The liver is responsible for metabolising alcohol, thus drinking less can go a long way towards preserving your liver’s energy and giving it a break.

  1. Use a body brush:

Use a body brush to gently massage your legs on the insides of your thighs and calves, starting at the feet, for about five minutes per day. This gently stimulates your liver meridian, allowing your Qi and blood to flow more freely, thereby relaxing your liver.

  1. Acupuncture 

Acupuncture as well as Chinese herbs can help to soothe and balance the liver.

Go outside! Take in the new green of spring, see the growing plants and move your body to circulate Qi and blood. Your liver will love you for it!

If you would like more information or to book in for an appointment with one of our practitioners, please call us on (07) 5531 6461 or you can book online via our website.

© Haynes Acupuncture ™ Gold Coast 2021