The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine says, “During the three months of spring, old things are replaced with new. Heaven and Earth come to life, and all things flourish.” Su Shi also vividly portrays the vitality and dynamism of spring with “Beyond the bamboo, a few peach blossoms bloom; the ducks in the spring river are the first to know that the water has warmed.” According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), spring is when liver energy is most active. The liver governs free flow and prefers a state of smoothness while resisting depression. Therefore, special attention should be given to mental adjustment in spring to maintain a positive outlook and an open mind. This helps ensure the free flow of liver energy and harmonizes the blood and qi, achieving the purpose of preventing illness and maintaining health.
One: Restraint
The Book of Lü says, “Desire has emotion, and emotion has limits. Sages cultivate limits to restrain desire, so they do not overindulge their emotions.” Emphasizing spiritual cultivation starts with restraining one's desires and emotions to maintain psychological harmony and balance. In daily work and life, if faced with something anger-inducing, consider the potential negative consequences. This can help you control overly intense emotions rationally.
Two: Venting
Venting negative emotions can be achieved through a combination of stillness and movement. Stillness involves cultivating the mind to discern right from wrong, which can be likened to the refinement of the heart through worldly experiences or the practice of mundane skills. Movement could involve sports like ball games, martial arts, or dance. These activities allow for the appropriate expression and release of pent-up and depressive emotions, restoring psychological balance.
Three: Transference
For those experiencing emotional disturbances, significant setbacks or injustices often lie at the root of their issues. If it is difficult to resolve these issues independently, transferring emotions can provide relief. As stated in The Yellow Emperor's Classic of Internal Medicine, “I have heard that in ancient times, treating illnesses involved moving the essence and transforming the qi, which could be accomplished through incantation.” “Moving the essence and transforming the qi” refers to a method that shifts and changes a patient's mental state to treat illness. “Incantation” refers to using talismans and verbal prayers to expel illness and disease, essentially a form of psychotherapy. By redirecting a patient's emotions, this method adjusts the flow of qi and allows the spirit to remain inwardly focused. Once the heart opens up and emotions are redirected, one can face life with a smile and live vibrantly.
Editor: Zhang Zhiyuan