In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the concept of five seasons—Spring, Summer, Late Summer, Autumn, and Winter—highlights the cyclical nature of life and the profound connection between the environment and the human body. Each season is linked to specific elements, emotions, and organ systems: Spring is associated with Wood and the Liver; Summer is tied to Fire and the Heart; Late Summer is aligned with Earth and the Spleen; Autumn is related to Metal and the Lung; and Winter is connected to Water and the Kidneys. Understanding these seasonal transitions fosters harmony within the body and encourages mindful lifestyle and dietary adjustments to enhance overall health throughout the year. Each class in this series will explore one season in depth, providing valuable insights into seasonal foods, herbal preparations, and lifestyle practices that resonate with that season's unique energy.
This link will allow you to purchase all 5 classes (prior to the first class) and receive a discounted price!
Here is a description of each class in the series:
- Water Season- Thursday, Feb 6 @ 6 pm- In this class, you’ll learn about the herbs that support the Kidney and Bladder, helping to bolster vitality, enhance immunity, and promote deep rejuvenation. We’ll discuss seasonal foods, herbal preparations, and lifestyle practices that resonate with Winter’s nurturing energy, empowering you to cultivate inner strength and resilience during the colder months. Whether you’re just beginning your herbal journey or are an experienced practitioner, this class will inspire you to honor the quiet power of Winter and its profound impact on your health and well-being.
- Wood Season - Thursday, April 10 @ 6 pm- This class invites you to discover the specific herbs that nurture the Liver and Gallbladder, promoting detoxification and emotional balance. We’ll explore seasonal foods, herbal preparations, and lifestyle practices that resonate with the vibrant energy of Spring, empowering you to embrace this transformative season for personal rejuvenation and wellness. Whether you’re just starting your herbal journey or are an experienced practitioner, this class will inspire you to harness the revitalizing power of Spring through the rich wisdom of TCM.
- Fire Season - Thursday, July 24 @ 6 pm- As we embrace the warmth and vibrancy of Summer, we will delve into the element of Fire, which embodies energy, joy, and transformation. In this class, you’ll discover the herbs that nourish the Heart and Small Intestine, promoting circulation, emotional clarity, and overall vitality. We’ll also explore seasonal foods, herbal remedies, and lifestyle practices that align with the exuberant energy of Summer, helping you to thrive during this lively time of year. Whether you’re new to herbalism or a seasoned practitioner, this class will inspire you to celebrate and harness the powerful essence of Summer for your personal well-being and holistic health.
- Earth Season - Thursday, September 4 @ 6 pm- Late Summer is a transitional time, associated with the Earth element. It is a period of nourishment, balance, and preparation for the cooler months ahead. In this class, you’ll discover the herbs that support the Spleen and Stomach, promoting digestion, grounding energy, and overall wellness. We’ll explore seasonal foods, herbal remedies, and lifestyle practices that align with the nurturing energy of Late Summer, helping you cultivate stability and resilience. Whether you're new to herbalism or a seasoned practitioner, this class will inspire you to embrace the abundant gifts of Late Summer and enhance your well-being through the wisdom of TCM.
- Metal Season- Thursday, October 30 @ 6 pm- As nature transitions into this time of reflection and release, we will explore the element of Metal, which embodies clarity, structure, and the process of letting go. In this class, you’ll learn about the herbs that support the Lung and Large Intestine, promoting respiratory health, emotional balance, and effective detoxification. We’ll delve into seasonal foods, herbal preparations, and lifestyle practices that align with Autumn's restorative energy, empowering you to cultivate strength and resilience as you prepare for the winter months. Whether you’re new to herbalism or an experienced practitioner, this class will inspire you to embrace the transformative power of Autumn and enhance your holistic well-being through the insights of TCM.
Martina Kostova's Bio
Traditions acupuncturist, Dr. Martina Kostova, just completed a rigorous program at Pacific College of Health & Science to earn her Doctorate in Acupuncture with a Chinese Herbal Medicine Specialization. This clinical doctorate program is similar to the programs taken by M.D.s and Chiropractors, focusing on developing clinical skills applicable to practice. Dr. Kostova's focus was on how to integrate Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) with Western Medicine. Through extensive research, Dr. Kostova learned ways to connect and communicate TCM with Western medical perspectives. Her hope is that one day, she will be able to work in a hospital where TCM is incorporated with Western practices, along with integrative medicine practices such as massage, naturopathy, and meditation.
With her diverse education and keen teaching skills, Dr. Kostova provides community education in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
