Seasonal shifts are critical times when the body's internal balance is vulnerable. Many of us may notice we are more prone to illness and colds and flus seem to flourish during these transitions. As winter moves to spring, there are some gentle lifestyle practices we can adopt to maintain a resilient immune system.

We take a look at how  Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and Western Naturopathy all view these seasonal handovers from a body first perspective. 

They offer similar perspectives rooted in the understanding that winter accumulates stagnation and the rising spring energy requires us to clear it. 

Ayurveda views the transition from winter to spring as a thawing of the accumulation of earth, water, cold and heaviness from the winter season which is dominated by kapha energy. In exchange we can embrace the spring with movement, lighter foods to reduce sluggish digestion and release stagnation. Herbs, movement, skin body treatments to help move lymph and support release are recommended. 

TCM, in a similar way views winter as a time to store energy and in spring we need to activate the liver organ rise and defend the immune system from changes in temperature and wind. Foods, herbs and body practices that help to build a strong immune system, support the liver and bring coldness to the surface are recommended.   

Naturopathy also focuses on elimination to release the build up of winter. Foods, herbs and body practices that help defend the body system, reduce inflammation, support the gut and  elevate micronutrients are all recommended.