Wood  is the element of spring.  It bursts forth with energy and moves out in every direction.  Wood progresses forward with vision, clarity, assertiveness and discernment.  It is green and flexible like a bamboo shoot that grows 100 feet straight up into the heavens.  Even the strong winds won’t stop it from growing as it bends with every obstacle without breaking because of it’s resilience and strength.  When properly nourished and supported by the richness of the soil and the warmth of the blistering sun, the wood element manifests with the virtue of benevolence.  Wood is associated with the Liver and Gall Bladder.  Your wood element within you wants to do whatever possible for the good of all humanity.  Unfortunately when out of balance, without the proper nutrition, a lack of moisture, or a lack of sunshine in your life, many obstacles can block this growth.  Sometimes, the imbalance can cause an overgrowth that affect the overproduction of cells or thoughts.  Are you stuck in a rut, where you feel frustrated or angry because something or everything is in the way?  Are you unable to assert yourself or are you indecisive?  Are you feeling exhausted because you are unable to rest and your thoughts are racing throughout the night?  Are you all dried out, inflexible and literally feel like you might snap in half?  Do you have vision for your future or do you have difficulty making a plan?  Or are you constantly making plans and unable to give yourself time to be still (without the phone)?  When you live in this wood element, or when your wood element is out of balance, these are common issues that may play out in your life preventing you from being your most virtuous self.  Physical manifestations eventually occur which include allergies, joint pains, tendon strains, hypochondriac pain and over a longer period can lead to organ dysfunction.  All of the elements support one another and the health in you may need to be readjusted and a few road blocks cleared so that your path may be opened to healthy growth, deep breathing, productivity, sound sleep, and justice for all!

Considerations in the season of spring time to nourish your wood element:

1. Go easy on the alcohol.
2. Eat greens.
3. Try something new and creative!
4. Wake up early and exercise or take a brisk walk and enjoy what is sprouting all around you!
5. Go to bed early so you can wake up early!
6. Use your time wisely, be productive so that you can enjoy the summer.  Spring doesn’t last forever!