Doyo

"Doyo" is a Japanese word that refers to the transition between the seasons. In the same way that "twilight" and "dusk" refer to the transitions between night and day, so the word "doyo" points to the time between, say, winter and spring.

A day like today - April in Colorado, with a light snow playfully coating the first of the daffodils and crocuses - is a perfect example of doyo energy. In terms of the Taoist Five Element system, this time between winter and spring represents the transition from the water element to the wood element.

It's that time of the year when the more inward "storing" impulses of winter begin to transform into the "new growth" impulses of spring. It's a good time, also, to take care of our Livers - the yin organ corresponding to the wood element. One way of doing this is by practicing kindness, which is the Liver's "virtue" - particularly in moments when we notice the energy of anger or frustration (the "emotions" associated with this phase) arising.

Happy Spring!