Oriental medicine is used throughout the world to treat many conditions of illness and imbalance. Included within the practice of oriental medicine is acupuncture, herbal medicine, therapeutic massage, Tai chi, chi gong practices and dietary changes. The foundation of health each and every day of our lives is based upon how we take care of ourselves in body, mind and spirit. The key is to follow the natural rhythms and cycles of life as they are expressed in the 5 seasons and the 5 elements. The 5 seasons are spring, summer, late summer, autumn and winter. The 5 elements that are paired with each season are wood, fire, earth, metal and water respectively.
Spring is the aliveness of creativity and pushing upward and outward. Summer is the time for expansiveness, maturity, warmth and joy. Late summer is the time for collecting our harvest and expresses the power of home and center. Autumn is the time for inspiration, self respect and purity. Winter is the time for going deeply into life, for courage, quiet and renewal. These qualities and expressions of life can guide us in knowing what is lacking or is excessive in our personal lives and relationships. Through acupuncture, herbs, Tai Chi, massage, diet, and reflection the 5 qualities of the seasons that are inside us and around us can be rebalanced and restored for optimal health and well being.
