text: TCM Insights on the Year of the Green Wood Dragon and Liver Health
  We welcomed the Year of the Green Wood Dragon with good food, the company of friends and family, and high spirits. It was a great opportunity to release the burdens of 2023 and start anew. But did you know there’s more than meets the eye to this year’s symbolic zodiac? This year, the significance of the wood element, color green, and dragon can unlock deep knowledge into our liver and gallbladder health.
  At Miami Acupuncture and Classical Herbs, we hope to provide a comprehensive guide to understanding 2024 from the lens of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). In turn, you will learn how to embrace the concept of balance and harmony within the body.
  Breaking Down the Elements: Yang, Wood, and Green
  As mentioned above, the Green Wood Dragon is characterized by the energy of Yang, one of the forces that represent the dual nature of existence opposing Yin. While Yin is more introspective, subdued, and receptive, Yang is associated with assertiveness, expansion, and transformation. This implies that 2024 is a time for forward-moving actions and being confident to take steps that will expand your life. Dr. Cook recommends exercising, warming up with healthy cooked food, and acupuncture that invigorates the body.
  On the other hand, the wood element is one of the five elements associated with TCM, including metal, water, fire, and earth. The Wood’s essence symbolizes resiliency, inner strength, and renewal. As the winter season turns into spring, the Wood element can awaken within us the potential for growth. Dr. Cook reminds us that elements are often attributed to our body organs, just as Wood represents the liver and the gall bladder. These body parts hold the vision of the future, making it vital to ensure its health.
  Color Green in TCM
  Picture a whisper of fresh leaves blowing in the wind. You feel a warm feeling on your chest as if telling you it’s time for a renewal. Green is associated with the beginning of the year, spring, and enhances our natural vibrancy for life. In TCM, green is related to our gallbladder, which plays an important role in muscle health and connective tissue. Our gallbladder houses our courage, judgment, and decision-making. Dr. Cook recommends adding more greens to your diet, like spinach, lettuce, green beans, broccoli, and avocado.
  TCM Tips for Liver and Gallbladder Health
  The liver and gallbladder play pivotal roles in maintaining the harmonious balance of Qi in our bodies. They complement each other in detoxification, emotional balance, and courage to take action. Incorporating the following TCM techniques can support their functions, improving your overall health in 2024.
  - Acupuncture: Scheduling a session with us helps maintain the balance of Qi in the liver and gallbladder meridians. We can assist the energy from your liver and gallbladder systems and release any emotional strain. Acupuncture can help regulate digestion, supporting overall organ function.
  - Herbal remedies: We have a few herbs that can help liver and gallbladder health, including bupleurum, milk thistle, turmeric tuber, field mint, finger Citron Fruit, also known as “Buddha’s Hand,” and more. You may consult with Dr. Cook for a personalized Chinese herbal formula.
  - Regular physical activity: Find ways to connect with your body and engage in active pursuits, such as yoga, qigong, tai chi, or brisk walking in nature. An additional reminder: Minimize consumption of caffeine and alcohol to avoid stressing your liver.
  Overall, the Green Wood Dragon blends creativity and decisiveness, empowering us to live a life of purpose. Becoming aware of the meaning behind the elements of this Chinese Zodiac can guide you in taking a proactive role in your life, propelling you forward to great change. If you need any support in TCM or guidance, making an appointment with Dr. Cook can help. She will tailor your consultation to your unique needs. Call us at (305) 665-9711 today!