Spring Cleaning for Your Plate

Simplify your meals and create light, fresh meals to reset your body.

The days are getting longer, the air smells greener, and suddenly my body wants less heavy stews and I’m having more of a quick stir fry or meat and salad type of meals. Spring has a way of nudging us toward lighter, fresher foods—almost like a natural reset button. Just like we open the windows and shake out the dust in our homes, our plates can use a little spring cleaning too.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, spring belongs to the Wood element, which is all about growth, renewal, and upward movement—just like shoots pushing through the soil. The organ associated with spring is the Liver, and its partner organ is the Gallbladder.

When the liver is balanced, we feel:

• Energetic, creative, motivated

• Clear-eyed and clear-headed

• Emotionally flexible (able to “go with the flow”)

When liver energy is stagnant, we may notice:

• Bloating or sluggish digestion

• Irritability or mood swings

• Stiffness in the body, especially the sides of the ribcage

• Eye strain or headaches

Spring cleaning for the body in TCM doesn’t mean harsh detoxes—it means gently supporting the liver’s natural process of moving energy and releasing what no longer serves us. We do this by:

• Eating fresh, green foods (leafy greens, sprouts, herbs)

• Lightly steaming or stir-frying instead of heavy cooking

• Adding sour flavors (lemon, umeboshi plum, vinegar) to stimulate the liver

• Moving the body—stretching, twisting, walking outdoors

Incorporating fresh herbs, sprouts, and bitter greens like rocket to your salad is a great idea and drinking dandelion tea is also a good habit to get into.

Optional Spring Clean Ritual: Coffee Enema Protocol

Some people (and I certainly) use coffee enemas as part of seasonal “reset” rituals to gently support the liver for detoxification. If you’re curious, here’s a simple protocol you can follow at home.

Just note: Coffee enemas aren’t for everyone. Avoid if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, have hemorrhoids, inflammatory bowel conditions, or low iron. Always listen to your body and consult a trusted practitioner if unsure.

What you need:

• 2–3 tbsp organic mould and mycotoxin free light-roast ground coffee

• 1 litre filtered water

• Enema kit

• A clean towel, comfortable space near a bathroom

How to prepare:

1. Place coffee + water in a pot, bring to a boil, then simmer gently for 10–15 minutes.

2. Strain, let cool until body-temperature (lukewarm).

3. Pour into your enema bucket/bag.

How to do it:

1. Lay a towel on the floor near the bathroom.

2. Lie on your right side (or back with knees up).

3. Lubricate the nozzle, insert gently.

4. Let the liquid flow in slowly, pausing if you feel cramping.

5. Once the liquid is in, stay lying down for 10–15 minutes, breathing deeply.

6. Release into the toilet when ready.

Frequency:

• 1–2 times per week during a short “reset” phase is common.

• Always hydrate well afterwards (warm herbal teas, mineral-rich broths, coconut water).

• You can make your own electrolyte drink at home with pantry items: in a large glass of water mix in juice of half a lemon, generous pinch of salt, 1/4 tsp cream of tartar, 1/2 tsp honey and sip post enema. Cream of tartar is high in potassium - a great pantry hack!

This is a more advanced ritual, and it’s not necessary for everyone. Think of it as one option in the broader toolkit of seasonal reset practices—alongside nourishing foods, movement, and rest.

Now onto my favorite Japanese-inspired, spring-friendly recipes. They’re simple, nutrient-dense, and super quick to make.