It’s normal to feel some tension in the transition from winter to spring. In nature there is a sudden rush of movement and upward flow, and you might feel something similar within yourself. You can either use this to your advantage or feel burdened by it.

Seasonal transitions are gradual - first it’s mostly winter with a touch of spring, then some winter and some spring, then mostly spring with a touch of winter, then it’s finally really springtime. Transition times are often the most uncomfortable! So how can you navigate this change with grace?

Living a holistic, seasonal lifestyle means always adapting. Rather than being set in one’s ways the whole year round, we are constantly making adjustments to best align with the environment.

This includes the foods we eat, activities we choose, and sleep schedules we hold. The tendency for rigidity and sticking with the current routine can be especially noticeable in the winter/spring transition.

We are moving from the water element season of deep rest, stillness, quiet, and self-reflection to the wood element time of rebirth, growth, and movement. This can be a particularly jarring transition as these are practically opposite themes. Rigidity and irritability are very common symptoms of imbalance during this time.

So how can you align with spring, make a smooth transition, and maximize your efforts while avoiding those common negative symptoms like irritability and overwhelm?

• Get moving and shake off the cobwebs. Conscious deep breathing, go for a stroll, or do some cardio. Have a dance party and shake it out. Expect there to be rising energy, and let it out. Holding it in can feel like overwhelm, anxiety, or irritability.

• Check in with your energy levels. Can you feel a difference with more sunlight these days? Don’t be an extremist by either pushing through no matter what or procrastinating and melting into the couch. Truly check in with the resources you have and make an intentional choice about how you will spend your time and energy.

• Adjust your routine. Feeling that rising energy, and having a hard time sitting still? Try a moving meditation instead of your seated stillness practice, or go for a mindful outdoor walk. As the days get longer, try waking up and retiring with the sun. Again, check in with your current routines. Are they serving you?

• Eat fresh seasonal foods. Sprouts are the ultimate representation of spring energy! Leafy greens are your friend this time of year. That doesn’t mean forever, but right now add in some stir fries and salads along with soups, stews, and roasted veg. Include bok choy, kale, and spinach.

• Learn/remember how to go with the flow. It’s all about balance - don’t be a flaky pushover, but loosen your grip on plans. You don’t need to do something just because you said you would - do it because it still serves your best interests. There’s a fine line between grit pointless rigidity. Use this as an opportunity to practice your discernment - what commitments do you need to stick to, and where are you pushing hard for no good reason?

• Imbalanced wood element can cause physical rigidity and stiffness. Do some yoga! Especially side bends and hip-opening postures as these stimulate Liver and Gall Bladder meridians - the organ systems associated with Wood Element! Take action by taking this free Youtube class.

If you’re feeling the effects of this seasonal shift—whether that’s physical tension, restlessness, or emotional overwhelm—know that small, intentional changes can make all the difference. Allowing energy to flow can help you feel more balanced, clear-headed, and in control.

For a deeper dive into this transition, join me for the Wood Element Workshop Bundle on Sunday, March 30, 2025 (yes, recordings will be available!). This bundle includes:

✨ 2-Hour Yin Yoga + Daoist Philosophy Workshop to understand and embody the Wood Element.
🔥 1-Hour Yang Yoga for Wood Element to move with the energy of the season.
💬 Live Q&A Session so you can ask questions and get personalized guidance.
📖 Seasonal Attunement Workbook packed with education, recipes, journal prompts, and reference materials—so you can return to this wisdom year after year.

Ready to move with the season instead of against it? Sign up here.