Rooted & Rising: How to Mother Yourself Through Spring
Spring is the season of new beginnings. Buds bloom, birds return, and the Earth itself seems to exhale a fresh breath of life.
In Chinese medicine, spring is governed by the Wood element, associated with the Liver and Gallbladder organs. This energy is about growth, expansion, vision, and forward movement. It’s the time to plant seeds—both literal and metaphorical—and support their unfolding.
But in order for anything to grow, it must feel safe, supported, and nourished. And that’s where the archetype of the Mother comes in.
Redefining What It Means to Mother
May is often a time we celebrate motherhood. But what if we looked beyond the traditional definition? What if mothering was something we all had access to—regardless of whether or not we’ve raised children?
The archetype of the Mother lives in all of us. She is the nurturer, the holder, the fierce protector, and the wise guide. And during spring—when everything is rising and expanding—we’re invited to mother ourselves.
That means tuning in, setting boundaries, offering compassion, and creating space for our dreams and desires to grow. It’s a time to tend to ourselves with the same love and care we so often give to others.
Spring Energy + Emotional Flow in Chinese Medicine
The Liver is responsible for the smooth flow of Qi (energy) and emotions. When Liver Qi is stagnant, we may feel irritable, overwhelmed, or physically tense—especially in the neck and shoulders. Spring is the season to move energy, but to do so gently.
Instead of forcing yourself into action or “doing more,” try softening into care. Ask yourself what your inner mother would say or do. How would she hold you through this transition?
Simple Ways to Mother Yourself This Spring
🌿 Acupuncture
Regular sessions can help regulate Liver Qi, reduce emotional stress, and reconnect you with your purpose and vitality.
🌿 Herbal Support
Gentle herbs like dandelion root and milk thistle can help the Liver detox and flow more freely.
🌿 Movement + Expression
Gentle stretching, walking, shaking, or dancing helps keep emotions moving. You can also try breathwork, journaling, or even sacred rage practices to release stuck energy.
🌿 Nourishing Foods
Eat warm, grounding meals with lots of greens, root veggies, and cooked foods to support digestion and vitality. Avoid cold, raw foods too early in the season.
Acupressure Points to Support Spring Energy
You can also activate the body’s healing energy at home with acupressure. Here are four points to support your Liver and Gallbladder:
✨ Liver 3 (Tai Chong):
Located between the first and second toes on the top of the foot. Helps reduce stress and promote energy flow.
✨ Gallbladder 34 (Yang Ling Quan):
Found just below the outside of the knee. Eases tension and frustration.
✨ Liver 14 (Qi Men):
Located on the ribcage, directly under the breast. Releases emotional stagnation.
✨ Gallbladder 20 (Feng Chi):
At the base of the skull, where the neck meets the head. Great for headaches and emotional tension.
Apply gentle pressure for 1–2 minutes while breathing deeply.
This Spring, Bloom with Love
Healing doesn’t always mean pushing through. Sometimes the most transformative thing we can do is pause, soften, and choose ourselves.
This season, give yourself permission to bloom—not with force, but with tenderness. Let your inner mother hold you as you grow.
Happy Mother’s Day to all women—may you feel deeply nurtured, honored, and empowered in every form of motherhood you embody.
