Working With the Spring Sun: October Health Tips from a TCM Perspective

Spring is now well underway.

Here on the Mornington Peninsula, October brings longer days, brighter mornings and that familiar feeling that life is beginning to move a little more quickly. While this weekend may be bringing us plenty of rain rather than sunshine, we’re also welcoming the return of daylight savings - giving us those extra hours of light to enjoy as the season unfolds.

We naturally start spending more time outdoors, becoming more active and looking ahead to the warmer months.

But spring isn't simply about doing more.

From a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, spring is a time when Yang begins to rise, the outward, active and warming qualities of nature become increasingly present after the quieter, more inward months of winter.

The invitation isn't to chase that energy or fill every spare moment with activity.

It's to work with it.

To enjoy the increasing light, move our bodies, spend time outdoors and embrace the changing season: while still paying attention to rest, recovery and what our individual bodies need.

Even on a rainy spring weekend, there is still an opportunity to slow down, notice the change in the season and find your own rhythm within it.

The Spring Sun:

Welcoming light without over doing it

The increasing sunlight is one of the most noticeable changes of spring.

Longer daylight hours can naturally encourage us to wake earlier, spend more time outside and become more active. Morning light can also be a wonderful cue for our daily rhythms, particularly after the darker months of winter.

But living in Australia also means being mindful of our strong UV environment.

Enjoying the spring sunshine doesn't mean deliberately exposing yourself to high levels of UV. You can enjoy the benefits of being outdoors while still using appropriate sun protection - particularly during periods of stronger UV.

Think morning walks, sitting outside with a cup of tea, gardening, eating lunch outdoors or simply taking a few minutes to notice the changing season.

The goal is not more sun exposure.

It's more connection with natural light and the outdoors, while respecting the sun.

Rising Yang : A TCM Perspective on Spring

In TCM, spring represents a gradual movement from the more inward, Yin quality of winter towards the outward, active quality of Yang.

We may notice this shift in ourselves too.

Perhaps we're feeling more motivated. We want to exercise again. We're making plans, socialising more or finally tackling projects that have been sitting on the winter to-do list.

This can be a wonderful thing.

But increased energy doesn't necessarily mean unlimited energy.

One of the principles we can take from the seasonal cycle is that growth still needs balance.

Rather than suddenly changing everything because the weather is warmer, consider gradually increasing your activity and allowing your body time to adjust.

Spring can be a time for expansion without needing to become a season of exhaustion.

October body focus: Your eyes and head

One area we might pay a little more attention to as spring progresses is the eyes.

Brighter light, increased time outdoors, wind, pollen and continued screen use can all contribute to tired or irritated eyes.

In TCM, the eyes have a traditional association with the Liver system, which is also connected with the Wood element of spring.

Rather than viewing this as a diagnosis, we can use it as a seasonal reminder to look after our eyes and give them regular breaks.

Try this simple reset during your workday:

1. Look away from your screen.

2. Allow your gaze to settle on something in the distance, soften your focus and take a few slow breaths.

It only takes a moment, but giving your eyes regular breaks can be a useful habit as our days become brighter and busier.

If you experience persistent eye irritation, pain or changes to your vision, seek appropriate medical advice.

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Herb of the Month: Chrysanthemum

Chrysanthemum flower, known as Ju Hua (菊花) in Chinese herbal medicine, has a long history of use in Chinese herbal traditions.

Traditionally, Chrysanthemum is associated with the Liver and Lung channels and is commonly used in herbal preparations involving the eyes and head.

For our October theme, we love Chrysanthemum as a simple reminder to pause and notice the season.

Rather than thinking of it as a “spring detox” or a treatment for particular symptoms, think of it as a traditional herbal tea that can become part of a gentle seasonal ritual.

And it's particularly lovely enjoyed outside on a sunny spring morning or afternoon.

TCM Spring Recipe:

Chrysanthemum & Goji Tea

You will need

• 5–8 dried Chrysanthemum flowers

• 1 small handful of dried goji berries

• 1–2 cups hot water

• Optional: fresh mint, a slice of pear or a little honey

  
  

Method

1. Place the Chrysanthemum flowers and goji berries into a teapot, glass teapot or large cup.

2. Pour over hot water and allow to steep for approximately 5–10 minutes.

3. Add a little honey, fresh mint or a slice of pear if you prefer a sweeter or more refreshing flavour.

4. Then take your tea outside.

5. Put your phone down, look towards the garden or sky, and give yourself five quiet minutes to simply enjoy the light and the season.

TCM Benefits

Traditionally, Chrysanthemum & Goji Berry tea is enjoyed to refresh and nourish, with a particular connection to the Liver and eyes. Chrysanthemum is traditionally used to clear heat and support the eyes and head, while Goji berries are used to nourish Liver Blood and Yin. Together, they make a gentle, refreshing tea that's especially lovely as the weather warms..

Please note: Chinese herbs can have different effects depending on the individual and may not be suitable for everyone, including people who are pregnant, taking certain medications or managing particular health conditions. If you're considering Chinese herbal medicine therapeutically, speak with a qualified practitioner.

Supporting your Health this Spring

Our clinic offers a range of therapies to support both physical and emotional wellbeing, including:

Acupuncture & Traditional Chinese MedicineRemedial Massage & MyotherapyKinesiologyCounselling & Psychotherapy

If you're noticing changes in your body, energy, mood or wellbeing as we move further into spring, our practitioners can help you explore an approach that suits your individual needs.

Book here

Wishing you a bright, balanced and nourishing October

Book an appointment with our Mornington team online now.