Dong Zhi (Winter Solstice) TCM Foods Explained

Last updated: April 2026

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Quick Answer

Spring's arrival, as of March 20, 2024, signifies a peak in the body's qi and blood circulation, crucial for health Beijing Municipal Health Commission on Spring Health.
The 'five elements' of TCM link spring to the wood element and the liver, emphasizing liver care during this season.
Consuming 300-500 milliliters of milk daily is recommended for calcium intake, supporting strong bones and preventing issues like osteoporosis Xinhua News on Spring Diet.
Increasing whole grain intake can lower risks of cardiovascular disease, type II diabetes, and colorectal cancer, while also helping with weight management.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) places significant emphasis on adapting diet and lifestyle to the changing seasons to maintain optimal health. While the Winter Solstice (Dong Zhi) marks a pivotal moment of yin's peak and yang's rebirth, the principles of seasonal adaptation are consistently applied throughout the year. For instance, spring, which arrived on March 20, 2024, is recognized as a time when the body's qi and blood circulation are particularly vigorous Beijing Municipal Health Commission on Spring Health. During this period, TCM recommends a diet rich in green seasonal foods to support yang qi and liver function, alongside specific bitter and sweet foods to balance internal organs. Adequate sleep and moderate exercise are also critical for nourishing the liver and promoting overall well-being. Furthermore, incorporating whole grains into the diet can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, type II diabetes, and colorectal cancer, according to research.

What is Dong Zhi and Its Significance in TCM?

Dong Zhi, or the Winter Solstice, is a crucial time in Chinese medicine, representing the shortest day and longest night of the year. This period marks the peak of yin energy, after which yang energy begins its gradual rebirth and ascent. While the provided research focuses extensively on the principles of spring health, understanding Dong Zhi involves similar TCM concepts of balancing yin and yang, and adapting one's diet and lifestyle to the seasonal changes. The transition from the extreme yin of winter to the nascent yang of spring, and then to the full yang of summer, showcases TCM's holistic view of the body's relationship with nature.

TCM emphasizes that each season has unique energetic qualities that influence the body's organs and systems. Adapting to these changes is not merely about surviving the season but thriving within it. For example, just as winter calls for warming and nourishing foods to protect the body's stored energy, spring demands foods that support the rising yang and the liver's active role. The principles derived from spring health, such as modulating emotions, eating specific foods, ensuring sufficient sleep, and engaging in appropriate exercise, are universal to TCM's approach to seasonal wellness, albeit with different specific recommendations for each season. Therefore, while we explore the detailed guidelines for spring, these serve as a framework for understanding how TCM advises aligning with the environment throughout the year, including during Dong Zhi.

The Cycle of Yin and Yang

TCM views the year as a continuous cycle of yin and yang, with Dong Zhi representing a turning point. It's a time for introspection and conserving energy, preparing the body for the coming growth phases. The shift from deep winter to spring, as detailed in the research, highlights the dynamic interplay of these forces. The "Huangdi Neijing – Treatise on the Regulation of the Spirit by the Four Qi" states: "The three months of spring are called unfolding and renewal. Heaven and earth are born, and all things flourish." This ancient wisdom underscores the importance of aligning human physiology with natural phenomena, a principle applicable to all seasons, including the profound energetic shift at Dong Zhi.

Preparing for Seasonal Transitions

The detailed advice for spring, such as protecting the liver and balancing qi, illustrates the proactive nature of TCM. It's not just about treating illness but preventing it by harmonizing with the environment. This proactive approach is equally vital for Dong Zhi, where practices might focus on deep nourishment and gentle warming to support the body's core vitality. By understanding the energetic qualities of each season, individuals can make informed choices about their diet and activities, ensuring resilience and balance year-round. The research about spring's vigorous qi and blood circulation, observed as of March 20, 2024, serves as an example of how TCM identifies specific periods for particular health focus Beijing Municipal Health Commission on Spring Health.

How Does TCM View Seasonal Changes?

TCM views seasonal changes as fundamental influences on human health, emphasizing a harmonious alignment between the body and the natural environment. Each season is associated with specific organs, elements, and energetic qualities that necessitate adjustments in diet, lifestyle, and emotional regulation. Spring, for instance, is characterized by growth, renewal, and the rising of yang energy. This season, as of March 20, 2024, is considered a period when the body's qi and blood circulation become particularly vigorous Beijing Municipal Health Commission on Spring Health.

According to TCM, spring belongs to the wood element, and among the five internal organs, the liver also possesses wood characteristics. Therefore, spring energy directly influences the liver, making it a crucial time for liver health. The "Huangdi Neijing – Treatise on the Regulation of the Spirit by the Four Qi" states: "The three months of spring are called unfolding and renewal. Heaven and earth are born, and all things flourish." This quote highlights spring as a period of vigorous growth and activity in nature, which the human body should mirror. To maintain health during this season, it is essential to support the liver's robust physiological functions, allowing the body to adapt to the vibrant changes in the natural world.

Spring and Liver Health

The liver's primary function in TCM is to ensure the smooth flow of qi throughout the body. In spring, as yang qi rises, the liver qi also becomes active and ascendant. If liver qi is stagnant or excessive, it can lead to symptoms such as headaches, red eyes, a bitter taste in the mouth, and irritability. Therefore, maintaining a joyful mood and avoiding anger or depression is crucial, as these emotions can harm liver qi and lead to qi stagnation and blood stasis, affecting overall health. As Ma Guojing, Xinxiang City Health Science Popularization Expert from the Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University, explained, "Traditional Chinese medicine believes that the spleen and stomach are the foundation of acquired essence, the source of human qi and blood production. When the spleen and stomach are strong, the body will be more vibrant. 'Qian Jin Yao Fang' states: 'In spring, seventy-two days, reduce sour and increase sweet to nourish spleen qi.'" This emphasis on balancing liver and spleen is a core aspect of spring wellness.

Adapting Diet to the Season

Dietary adjustments are a cornerstone of TCM seasonal wellness. For spring, recommendations include consuming green seasonal foods like chives, spinach, and bean sprouts to supplement yang qi and aid liver qi. Bitter foods such as bitter melon and bitter greens are suggested to clear heat and balance heart fire. Sweet foods like red dates, yams, and honey can strengthen the spleen and stomach, and replenish qi and blood. Conversely, it is advised to reduce pungent foods like green onions, ginger, and garlic, as spring yang is already strong and excessive stimulation is not beneficial. This balanced approach ensures that the body receives the necessary nourishment while avoiding imbalances that can lead to illness.

Emotional and Physical Harmony

Beyond diet, TCM stresses emotional well-being and physical activity. Keeping a calm and happy mood, engaging in gentle exercises like Tai Chi or yoga, and ensuring adequate sleep are all vital for supporting the body's natural rhythms. These practices help to regulate qi and blood, strengthen muscles and bones, and prevent common spring ailments like colds, allergies, and asthma. The holistic perspective of TCM means that health is achieved through a synergy of diet, emotions, activity, and rest, all harmonized with the prevailing seasonal energies.

What Foods Are Recommended for Seasonal Health in TCM?

TCM provides specific dietary recommendations for each season to align with the body's energetic needs and the environment. For spring, as of March 20, 2024, when the body's qi and blood circulation are vigorous, the focus is on supporting the liver and spleen, and promoting the upward movement of yang qi Beijing Municipal Health Commission on Spring Health.

Green Seasonal Foods

Spring is the season of growth, and incorporating green seasonal foods is paramount. These include chives, spinach, bean sprouts, and various "spring sprouts." These foods are believed to supplement yang qi and better support the liver's qi in its natural upward movement. They are often light and fresh, aligning with the season's energetic qualities.

Bitter and Sweet Foods

Alongside green vegetables, TCM recommends including certain bitter and sweet foods. Bitter foods, such as bitter melon (苦瓜) and bitter greens (苦菊), can help clear heat and balance heart fire, which can become overactive in spring. Sweet foods, on the other hand, like red dates, yams, and honey, are beneficial for strengthening the spleen and stomach, and replenishing qi and blood. This principle of "increasing sweet and decreasing sour" helps to inhibit overly strong liver qi while nourishing the spleen, which can be weakened by an overactive liver. "Traditional Chinese medicine believes that the spleen and stomach are the foundation of acquired essence, the source of human qi and blood production. When the spleen and stomach are strong, the body will be more vibrant. 'Qian Jin Yao Fang' states: 'In spring, seventy-two days, reduce sour and increase sweet to nourish spleen qi,'" explained Ma Guojing, Xinxiang City Health Science Popularization Expert from the Third Affiliated Hospital of Xinxiang Medical University. This dietary guideline is not about consuming sugary foods, but rather foods that possess a naturally sweet and harmonizing quality according to TCM's five-flavor theory.

Whole Grains and Nutrient-Rich Foods

Whole grains are highly recommended for spring health and overall well-being. Compared to refined grains, whole grains contribute to better blood sugar control after meals, and provide essential dietary fiber, minerals, and B vitamins. They also enhance feelings of fullness. Research indicates that increasing whole grain intake can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, type II diabetes, and colorectal cancer, while also helping maintain a healthy weight and slowing down weight gain. Therefore, even when aiming for weight management in spring, consuming a balanced mix of coarse and fine grains is advisable.

Vitamin C and Antioxidant-Rich Foods

To boost immunity and prevent common spring illnesses, an adequate intake of vitamin C is crucial. Vitamin C aids in collagen synthesis, prevents oxidative damage, promotes wound healing, and supports the production of antibodies, enhancing the immune cells' ability to fight pathogens. Excellent sources of vitamin C include fresh fruits like winter dates, guava, kiwi, strawberries, oranges, grapefruit, papaya, and mandarins. Among vegetables, bell peppers are exceptionally rich in vitamin C; consuming 100 grams of fresh bell pepper can satisfy 130% of an average adult's daily vitamin C needs. Deep-colored vegetables, such as carrots, broccoli, bok choy, purple cabbage, purple onions, and tomatoes, are also vital. These are packed with antioxidants like beta-carotene, anthocyanins, and lycopene, which help eliminate free radicals, reduce inflammation, and combat aging, contributing to vitality and better skin in spring.

Quality Protein and Calcium

Protein is essential for a strong immune system. Milk and other high-quality protein sources are important. Milk also serves as a significant source of calcium, crucial for strengthening bones and tendons, especially as spring is considered an opportune time for bone health. Insufficient calcium intake can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and fractures. The "Chinese Resident Dietary Guidelines (2022 Edition)" recommends consuming 300-500 milliliters of milk daily to meet calcium needs, making it an economical choice for calcium supplementation Xinhua News on Spring Diet.

How Can We Support Liver Health According to TCM?

Supporting liver health is a central tenet of TCM seasonal wellness, particularly during spring, when the liver is most active. TCM associates the liver with the wood element, and its primary function is the smooth flow of qi (energy) throughout the body. Therefore, nurturing the liver involves a holistic approach that includes emotional regulation, dietary choices, adequate sleep, and appropriate physical activity.

Emotional Harmony

TCM emphasizes that the liver governs "疏泄" (shu xie), which refers to its function of regulating the smooth flow of qi, blood, and emotions. The liver "likes to be free-flowing and dislikes depression," leading to the saying "anger harms the liver." Prolonged anger, irritability, or depression can impede the liver's normal physiological functions, and conversely, an imbalanced liver can exacerbate these emotions. Therefore, maintaining a joyful and calm mood is paramount for liver health in spring. Engaging in activities that relieve stress and express emotions, such as talking, exercising, or pursuing hobbies, helps to ensure smooth liver qi flow, promoting overall harmony of qi and blood in the body.

Dietary Principles

Diet plays a significant role in liver support. The principle of "increase sweet, decrease sour" is advised to prevent excessive liver qi from becoming too strong while simultaneously nourishing the spleen, which can be weakened by an overactive liver. This does not mean consuming refined sugars but rather foods that naturally possess a sweet and harmonizing quality according to TCM's five-flavor theory. Foods considered "sweet" in this context include those with tonifying, spleen-strengthening, and soothing effects, such as yams, lentils, walnuts, and other whole grains. Conversely, "sour" foods are those with astringent or consolidating properties, like pomegranates or raspberries, which should be consumed in moderation during spring. The spring diet should primarily focus on strengthening the spleen and boosting qi. Recommended foods include red dates, yams, lentils, lean meat, fish, honey, ginger, barley, and wheat, combined with fresh vegetables to help soothe the liver and regulate qi.

Prioritizing Sleep

Sleep is considered a vital medicine for liver protection. TCM holds that "when a person lies down, blood returns to the liver," highlighting the importance of rest for liver regeneration. The period between 11 PM and 3 AM is particularly significant, as it corresponds to the time when the liver and gallbladder meridians are most active. Going to bed on time and ensuring sufficient sleep allows the body to enter a self-repair mode, facilitating the liver's nocturnal detoxification and restorative processes. Regular熬夜 (staying up late) can disrupt these vital functions, negatively impacting liver health.

Moderate Exercise and Acupressure

Engaging in moderate, gentle, and rhythmic exercises like Tai Chi, Qigong, yoga, or dancing helps to regulate breathing, balance yin and yang, and soothe liver qi. The "Huangdi Neijing" advises "walking widely in the courtyard and loosening one's hair and form," which means engaging in relaxed physical activity to align with the rising yang energy of spring. This promotes smooth qi and blood circulation, aids in expelling toxins, strengthens the body, and cultivates a joyful spirit, all beneficial for liver health. Additionally, massaging the Taichong acupoint (太冲穴), located on the top of the foot between the first and second metatarsal bones, is considered a primary point for liver nourishment. Applying pressure and sliding along the bone gap 20 times on each foot can help regulate liver qi.

Eye Protection

TCM states that "the liver stores blood and opens into the eyes," indicating a direct connection between eye health and liver function. Excessive screen time or prolonged visual strain can deplete liver blood, leading to eye fatigue and potentially impacting liver health. Taking regular breaks, closing the eyes for rest, looking into the distance, and performing eye exercises can alleviate visual fatigue and support the liver. These practices help conserve liver blood and maintain the health of both the eyes and the liver. For more details, see CCTV on Spring Wellness Diet.

What Role Does Sleep and Exercise Play in TCM Seasonal Wellness?

Sleep and exercise are fundamental pillars of TCM seasonal wellness, recognized as essential for maintaining the body's balance and adapting to environmental changes. These practices are not merely about physical rest or activity but are deeply intertwined with the flow of qi, the health of internal organs, and overall vitality.

The Importance of Sleep

In TCM, sleep is highly valued, with a popular saying stating, "Herbal tonics are not as good as food tonics, and food tonics are not as good as sleep tonics." Another ancient wisdom states, "Those who can sleep, those who can eat, can live long." This emphasizes sleep as one of the most crucial aspects of health preservation. The concept that "when a person lies down, blood returns to the liver" highlights sleep's direct benefit to liver health. During sleep, especially between 11 PM and 3 AM, the liver and gallbladder meridians are most active, and the body enters a self-repair mode. Consistently staying up late (熬夜) can disrupt these critical nocturnal repair processes, significantly affecting liver function and overall health. Therefore, ensuring timely bedtime and adequate sleep is considered the best medicine for protecting the liver, particularly during spring when liver activity is naturally heightened.

The Benefits of Exercise

Exercise in TCM is about promoting the smooth flow of qi and blood, strengthening the body, and aligning with seasonal energies. The "Huangdi Neijing" advises, "walking widely in the courtyard and loosening one's hair and form," meaning to engage in relaxed and flowing physical activities to harmonize with the rising yang energy of spring. This helps the body's yin and yang remain balanced and coordinated, contributing to longevity and well-being.

For spring, the recommended exercises are soft, gentle, and rhythmic, such as Tai Chi, Qigong, yoga, and dancing. These activities help regulate breathing, balance yin and yang, and soothe liver qi. They promote the circulation of qi and blood, enhance the strength of muscles and bones, and can prevent common spring ailments like colds, allergies, and asthma. It's important to exercise according to one's individual constitution and avoid overexertion, as excessive fatigue can deplete yang qi and harm internal organs. For instance, increasing whole grain intake can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, type II diabetes, and colorectal cancer, while also helping with weight management, which complements the benefits of physical activity.

Balancing Activity and Rest

TCM promotes a balance between activity and rest. While early rising and slightly later bedtimes are suggested in spring to align with the rising yang, excessive sleep is discouraged as it can harm yang qi. The goal is to allow the body to adapt to the natural rhythm of the season, protecting the liver's detoxification functions and promoting repair. This balance ensures that the body is neither overly stimulated nor excessively sedentary, maintaining a harmonious state that supports seasonal wellness. The "Chinese Resident Dietary Guidelines (2022 Edition)" recommends consuming 300-500 milliliters of milk daily, which supports bone health essential for an active lifestyle Xinhua News on Spring Diet.

Are There Specific Foods to Reduce or Avoid?

Yes, TCM recommends reducing or avoiding certain foods during particular seasons to prevent imbalances and protect vital organs. These recommendations are often based on the energetic properties of foods and their potential impact on the body's seasonal adaptations. For spring, the emphasis is on protecting the liver and spleen, as detailed in the research.

Reducing Pungent Foods

In spring, it is advised to consume fewer pungent (辛味) foods, such as green onions, ginger, and garlic. The reason for this is that pungent flavors have a dispersing effect on yang qi. Since spring is already a season of rising and vigorous yang qi, excessive stimulation from pungent foods can over-disperse this energy, potentially leading to imbalances. While these foods have their place in other seasons or for specific conditions, their moderation is key during spring to prevent overstimulation of the liver and an uncontrolled ascent of yang qi.

Limiting Oily and Sweet Foods

The liver's heightened activity in spring can sometimes constrain the spleen, impacting its digestive and transformative functions. This can manifest as bloating, abdominal pain, indigestion, or irregular bowel movements. To mitigate these issues, TCM recommends reducing the intake of oily and excessively sweet foods. These types of foods can burden the spleen and stomach, making their work harder and potentially exacerbating digestive problems. Instead, the focus should be on easily digestible, spleen-strengthening foods like yams, lentils, and薏米 (Job's tears), combined with a regular eating schedule and abdominal massages to promote spleen and stomach function.

Avoiding Raw and Cold Foods

While not explicitly highlighted for spring in the provided research, the general TCM principle for kidney health, which is connected to winter, suggests reducing raw and cold foods. The research mentions that in spring, yang qi may be externally expressed, leading to potential kidney qi deficiency, which can manifest as lower back and knee soreness, dizziness, tinnitus, and frequent urination. To protect kidney yang, it's advised to avoid over-consuming raw and cold foods and to not drink excessive amounts of water. This helps to conserve the body's internal warmth and support kidney function, which is foundational to overall vitality throughout the year.

The Importance of Whole Grains

While not a food to avoid, it's crucial to avoid the misconception that all carbohydrates are detrimental, especially when considering weight management. Research suggests that for spring, even when aiming for weight loss, completely cutting out staple foods (主食) is not recommended. Staple foods provide essential carbohydrates, which are the brain's primary energy source. Insufficient intake can lead to slow reactions, low blood sugar, and fatigue. Moreover, avoiding staple foods can inadvertently lead to increased intake of fats and proteins to feel full. Instead, the recommendation is to combine coarse and fine grains, increasing the intake of whole grains. Whole grains not only help control post-meal blood sugar but also provide dietary fiber, minerals, and B vitamins, and enhance satiety. Studies show that increased whole grain consumption can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, type II diabetes, and colorectal cancer, and help maintain a healthy weight.

How Can Immunity Be Enhanced Through TCM Nutrition?

Enhancing immunity through TCM nutrition involves a holistic approach that focuses on supporting the body's vital qi, balancing internal organ functions, and providing essential nutrients. The spring season, with its vigorous qi and blood circulation, is an opportune time to strengthen the body's defenses against common illnesses Beijing Municipal Health Commission on Spring Health.

Boosting Vitamin C Intake

Vitamin C is a critical nutrient for a robust immune system. It plays multiple roles in supporting immunity, including promoting the synthesis of collagen, which is essential for healthy skin and mucous membranes (the body's first line of defense). It also aids in the differentiation of keratin-forming cells, prevents oxidative damage, and facilitates wound healing. Furthermore, vitamin C stimulates the production of antibodies and enhances the ability of neutrophils, monocytes, and macrophages to engulf pathogens. To ensure adequate intake, focus on fresh fruits rich in vitamin C, such as winter dates, guava, kiwi, strawberries, oranges, grapefruit, papaya, and mandarins. Among vegetables, bell peppers are an excellent source; consuming 100 grams of fresh bell pepper can fulfill 130% of an average adult's daily vitamin C requirements.

Incorporating Deep-Colored Vegetables

Deep-colored vegetables, including those that are orange, dark green, or purple, are packed with antioxidants that contribute to stronger immunity and overall vitality. Examples include carrots, broccoli, bok choy, rapeseed, purple cabbage, purple onions, and tomatoes. These vegetables contain beneficial compounds like beta-carotene, anthocyanins, and lycopene, which help to neutralize free radicals, reduce inflammation, and combat aging. Regular consumption of these antioxidant-rich foods can help the body stay more energetic and maintain healthier skin, especially during the dynamic spring season.

Ensuring Adequate Protein and Calcium

Protein is a fundamental building block for immune cells and antibodies. Therefore, ensuring sufficient intake of high-quality protein is vital for a strong immune response. Milk is not only a source of quality protein but also a crucial avenue for calcium intake. Spring is considered a good time to strengthen muscles and bones. Calcium deficiency can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, and fractures. To meet calcium needs, consuming milk is an economical choice. The "Chinese Resident Dietary Guidelines (2022 Edition)" recommends a daily intake of 300-500 milliliters of milk. This recommendation highlights the importance of dairy for overall health, including bone integrity and immune support Xinhua News on Spring Diet.

The Role of Whole Grains

Beyond direct immune-boosting nutrients, a balanced diet including whole grains contributes significantly to overall health, which indirectly supports immunity. Whole grains, compared to refined grains, offer benefits such as improved post-meal blood sugar control and increased intake of dietary fiber, minerals, and B vitamins. They also enhance satiety. Research has shown that increasing whole grain consumption can lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, type II diabetes, and colorectal cancer, and help maintain a healthy weight. A healthy gut microbiome, supported by dietary fiber from whole grains, is also crucial for immune function. Therefore, incorporating a mix of coarse and fine grains into the diet is a fundamental strategy for enhancing immunity through TCM nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of Dong Zhi (Winter Solstice) in TCM?

Dong Zhi, or Winter Solstice, marks the peak of yin energy and the gradual rebirth of yang in TCM. While the provided research focuses on spring, the principles of seasonal adaptation apply to Dong Zhi as well, emphasizing conserving energy and nourishing the body's fundamental vitality. This period is seen as a crucial turning point in the annual cycle, influencing the body's qi and blood flow.

How does TCM recommend adjusting diet during seasonal changes?

TCM recommends adjusting diet to align with the energetic qualities of each season. For spring, as of March 20, 2024, the focus is on green seasonal foods to support yang qi and liver function, bitter foods to clear heat, and sweet foods to strengthen the spleen and stomach Beijing Municipal Health Commission on Spring Health. Conversely, pungent foods should be reduced to avoid over-dispersing yang qi. This approach ensures the body receives appropriate nourishment and avoids imbalances caused by seasonal shifts.

What specific foods are beneficial for liver health in TCM?

For liver health, especially in spring, TCM suggests foods that support the liver's qi and nourish the spleen. This includes green seasonal foods like chives and spinach, and "sweet" foods such as red dates, yams, lentils, lean meat, fish, honey, barley, and wheat. These foods help inhibit excessive liver qi and strengthen the spleen. Ma Guojing, Xinxiang City Health Science Popularization Expert, stated, "Traditional Chinese medicine believes that the spleen and stomach are the foundation of acquired essence, the source of human qi and blood production. When the spleen and stomach are strong, the body will be more vibrant."

Why is sleep considered important for health in TCM?

Sleep is crucial in TCM because it allows the body to restore and repair itself, particularly benefiting the liver. The period between 11 PM and 3 AM is considered vital for liver and gallbladder meridian activity. "When a person lies down, blood returns to the liver," highlighting how timely and sufficient sleep is seen as the best medicine for liver protection. Regular late nights can disrupt these essential restorative processes.

What role do emotions play in TCM seasonal wellness?

Emotions play a significant role in TCM seasonal wellness, especially concerning liver health. The liver "likes to be free-flowing and dislikes depression," meaning emotions like anger, irritability, and prolonged sadness can harm liver qi, leading to stagnation. Maintaining a joyful and calm mood helps ensure the smooth flow of liver qi and overall balance. Engaging in activities that relieve stress and express emotions is crucial for supporting liver function and promoting harmony within the body.