The Pericardium is not considered to be an organ system in some TCM schools of thought. This means the Pericardium does not fit into Five Elements Theory, which relates each organ system to one of the Five Elements – Water, Fire, Wood, Metal, or Earth – and to a season, as well as to other Read More
The San Jiao, or Triple Burner, is one of the most conceptually complex and controversial systems in TCM. Many TCM authorities debate whether the San Jiao consists of an actual “form” (organ), or if it is a conceptual framework to describe a function. The San Jiao is believed to be part of the six Yang Read More
The Great Yang Season Enjoy the Fire energy of Summer, but know how to keep it under control when you need to simmer down! Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a framework for viewing our health within the context of the natural world You can learn to manage the heat and fire of Summer by understanding Read More
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Spleen and Stomach are related to that elusive fifth season of Late Summer. TCM, the Five Elements and Late Summer The Five Elements (Water, Fire, Wood, Metal, Earth) are qualities of nature that are foundational to the theory of TCM. The theory of the Five Elements is systematically Read More
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Heart and Small Intestine are related to the Season of Summer. TCM, the Five Elements and Summer The Five Elements (Water, Fire, Wood, Metal, Earth) are qualities of nature that are foundational to the theory of TCM. The theory of the Five Elements is systematically applied to symptomatology, Read More
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Liver and Gallbladder are related to the Season of Spring. TCM, the Five Elements and the Liver The Five Elements (Water, Fire, Wood, Metal, Earth) are qualities of nature that are foundational to the theory of TCM. The theory of the Five Elements is systematically applied to symptomatology, Read More
Updated January 2023 The gifts (and challenges) of Spring Spring is a time of rebirth, renewal, regeneration, and growth. Time to awaken from your winter hibernation and brush off the cobwebs. Like most animals, humans tend to slow down during the colder months and in the process pack on a few extra pounds. As the Read More
Updated March 1, 2021 Springtime is the perfect time for a liver cleanse Check out this one-week liver cleanse for Spring! Then read on to learn more about how Traditional Chinese medicine works holistically with the seasons and seasonal changes to help you achieve and maintain optimal health. We include a few springtime health tips Read More
The gifts (and challenges) of Spring Spring brings sunshine, warmer days, and renewal. It is also a time of transition, when the weather can alternate between extremes. Similarly, we too can experience swings, one day feeling energized by warmth and sunshine, and the next day discouraged by strong winds, cold rains, and, if you live Read More
Winter is a time for hibernation and internal reflection Winter is the end of a natural cycle. Many may equate winter with death. However, even within nature, there is an emphasis on yin. During Winter, aspects of receptiveness, introspection, and storage become dominant. Cold and darkness drive one to seek warmth, and there is a Read More
Updated December 2023 According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Kidney and Bladder are related to the season of Winter. TCM, The Five Elements and the Kidney The Five Elements (Water, Fire, Wood, Metal, Earth) are qualities of nature that are foundational to the theory of TCM. The theory of the Five Elements is systematically Read More
Autumn is a vibrant time of year, when Nature puts forth a final energetic release with an explosion of color and crisp air, in preparation for a time of rest. Leaves change color and fall to the ground, showing us the beauty of letting things go. Plants give their final harvest, animals start to store Read More