With every change of season, not only nature shifts — our energy does too. We may feel tired, heavier, or more restless than usual. It’s as if the body needs a moment to adjust. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this is completely natural: humans are part of nature and move along with its rhythm. Acupuncture helps support the body during these transitions, easing discomfort and allowing you to enjoy each season more fully.
Why, According to TCM, People React to Seasonal Changes
In TCM, health is seen as a continuous flow of energy (Qi). When the seasons change, so does the quality of that energy. Nature withdraws in autumn, turns inward in winter, awakens in spring, and blossoms in summer. We unconsciously follow the same cycle.
Each transition requires the body to adjust to new circumstances, which takes energy. If your energy is already somewhat depleted, this can lead to complaints. Some people feel tired or sluggish during seasonal changes, others experience headaches, muscle tension, or low moods. Digestive issues and sleep problems are also common.
From a TCM perspective, this is a sign that the balance between body and mind is temporarily disturbed. Energy is not flowing optimally, making us more sensitive to external influences.
The Seasons According to TCM
TCM works with the principle of the Five Elements: Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water. Each element is linked to a season, an organ system, and a specific emotion.
- Spring is linked to the Wood element. It corresponds to the liver and gallbladder and relates to growth, direction, and movement. When energy stagnates, it can lead to frustration, anger, or tension.
- Summer is associated with the Fire element and the heart. It is a time of openness and joy, but also of heat and overstimulation.
- Late summer is connected to the Earth element, representing the spleen and stomach — our center of stability and nourishment. Many people feel heavier or more tired during this time.
- Autumn is dominated by the Metal element, associated with the lungs and large intestine. This season is about letting go, reflection, and strengthening the immune system.
- Winter is the season of the Water element and the kidneys. It’s a period of rest, restoration, and trust. When this energy is out of balance, it can lead to feelings of fear or emptiness.
During seasonal transitions, these elements shift from one phase to another. That makes it a sensitive time for both body and mind, increasing the chance of imbalance or discomfort.
How Acupuncture Helps You Stay Energized Through Seasonal Changes
Acupuncture helps energy flow freely through the body again and supports a smooth natural transition. Gentle stimulation of specific points can calm the nervous system, improve circulation, and strengthen the immune system.
Tip: Also read our blog on how acupuncture helps strengthen the immune system.
Many people notice deeper breathing, better sleep, and increased vitality after treatment. Acupuncture doesn’t just relieve symptoms — it can also help prevent them. We do this by restoring harmony between the body and seasonal energy.
In each treatment, we look at you as a whole — not just the symptom, but also the underlying imbalance. Sometimes that’s fatigue from too little rest in winter, other times it's tension building up with the arrival of spring. By recognizing these patterns, we help the body recover in a natural way.
Curious how others experience acupuncture? Read our patient stories here.
How to Align with the Seasons According to TCM
TCM encourages us to live in harmony with nature’s rhythm. That means: eating warm foods when it’s cold outside, resting more during the dark months, and becoming more active as the light returns.
Simple practices can make a big difference:
- A walk in the fresh air
- A warm bath to unwind
- Breathing exercises or Qi Gong to get energy flowing
- Above all: listening to what your body needs
Want to Experience How Acupuncture Can Support You Through Seasonal Changes?
Every seasonal transition is a moment of change. It offers the opportunity to let go of what’s no longer needed and make space for new energy. Our acupuncturists are here to help you rebalance your energy so you can fully enjoy everything each season has to offer.
Book your appointment now at one of our clinics in the Randstad. Our team of acupuncturists is ready to support you!
