In Chinese medicine, Spring is a time of year to pay extra attention to the liver. After a season of eating more warming, nourishing, heavier foods, on top of less exercise and activity (all of which is actually more health-supportive during a colder climate season), your liver may become more congested and less effective at doing its job, some of which includes: aiding the body in breaking down fats, filtering toxic substances from the blood, and storage of vitamins and minerals in the body. Congestion of the liver may eventually lead to symptoms such as sluggishness, bad breath, headaches, and allergies.
Even if you aren't currently experiencing any of these symptoms, it's still a good idea to treat your liver with some TLC - tender loving care.
Below are my top 5 ways to Spring clean for your health and love up your liver:
1. Incorporate more nourishing, seasonal foods, such as: dark, leafy greens (kale, 
collard greens, mustard greens, swiss chard), romaine lettuce, and asparagus
2. Reduce foods that can further congest your liver, most notably: sugar, refined foods, fried foods, and for some people, dairy
3. Emotional self-expression: A congested liver is commonly associated with emotions such as anger, frustration, impatience and aggression. Channel your energy into something positive - for example, painting, sports, journaling, conversations with old friends over tea. Don't hold your feelings inside - doing so can actually cause your liver (and emotions) to become even more congested.
4. Invest in a total body tune-up: consider acupuncture, chiropractic, massage, steam bath, pilates, or yoga. If you are local to NYC and would like some recommendations, I would be happy to refer you to some amazing practitioners.
5. Get outside and enjoy the sunshine and longer days! There's no simpler, quicker, more effective way of lightening your mood than breathing in the fresh air and getting a good dose of vitamin D. Also, taking a step back from whatever may be causing you distress or frustration can do wonders in getting you re-focused and re-energized on the task or situation at hand.