A Year’s Plan Begins in Spring!
The path to wellness lies in aligning oneself with the rhythms of nature and the changing seasons — doing so can yield twice the results with half the effort.
From March onward, as the weather gradually warms and occasional rains make the air humid, Dr. Kwang-Hao Cheng, a specialist in natural medicine, recommends starting with a few simple habits.
Disease Prevention — Stay Warm, Protect the Liver, and Wash Hands Frequently
As the world faces the COVID-19 pandemic this spring, Dr. Cheng reminds everyone to wash hands frequently and thoroughly — use soap or hand wash, scrub for at least 20 seconds, and dry your hands completely afterward. Avoid touching your eyes, mouth, and nose to reduce infection risk.
The seasonal “six pathogenic factors” corresponding to spring include wind evil (風邪), which can lead to ailments caused by wind, such as body aches, stroke, shoulder and neck pain, or facial paralysis. The large temperature shifts between day and night make colds common, so protecting against wind and keeping warm are essential.
From the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), spring corresponds to the liver (肝) organ system. Diseases related to the liver — such as headaches, dizziness, or liver-yang rising — tend to occur in spring, as they are associated with the upward movement of yang energy.
Diet — Sweet and Spicy for a Healthier Spring!
The Tang Dynasty physician Sun Simiao once said: “In spring, reduce sour flavors and increase sweetness to nourish the spleen.”
Because sour foods have an astringent effect that hinders the body’s natural growth during this season, it’s better to consume sweet foods that support spleen energy — such as red dates and honey.
You can also eat more spicy or pungent foods like ginger, green onions, and garlic — as well as seasonal ingredients such as scallions, garlic sprouts, Chinese chives, toon leaves, bean sprouts, and pea shoots.
On the other hand, cold-natured foods like winter melon, mung bean sprouts, and iced beverages should be avoided, as they can lower the body’s core temperature and deplete yang energy.
Clothing — Layer Like an Onion: Don’t Pack Away All Your Winter Clothes!
An old saying goes, “Spring is like a stepmother’s face” — unpredictable and quick to change. The body’s connective tissues loosen in spring, weakening its resistance to the external environment. Therefore, don’t rush to switch to summer clothing. Since most indoor spaces in Taiwan aren’t heated, the “onion-style” layering method is best.
Onion-Style Layering:
Inner layer (sweat-wicking): Close-fitting but not tight; breathable fabrics that wick away moisture
Middle layer (insulating): Sweater or vest (avoid turtlenecks)
Outer layer (wind- and water-resistant): Lightweight down coat or trench coat with scarf, hat, or other warm accessories
Expert Interview —Dr. Kwang-Hao Cheng
Chairman, IInternational Comprehensive Healthcare Management Association
Doctor of Clinical Medicine, Eurasia University
Master of Energy Medicine, Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine (USA)
General Manager, Atmos Living Technology Co., Ltd.
Greater China Marketing Director, Quan Yi Energy-Wave Biotechnology Co., Ltd.
Natural Medicine Consultant, Chiba Prefecture Mouri Hospital (Japan)
Preventive Medicine Consultant, Pipeline Bureau General Hospital, Langfang, Hebei Province
Board Member & Adjunct Professor, Asia-Pacific Chiropractic Medical Association
