Ostara and the Spring Equinox

​The Spring Equinox, (also known as the Vernal Equinox) is one of the most beautiful and meaningful moments in the naturopathic calendar. In 2026, Ostara falls on Friday 20 March, marking the true beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere.

This is the moment of perfect balance between light and dark. Day and night are equal and from this point forward, the light begins to grow. Nature is stirring. The days lengthen, the earth softens and life begins to bloom again.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine this marks a powerful shift not only in nature but within the body. Spring is governed by the Liver and the Wood element. Think of a young tree pushing up through the soil. There is movement, growth, expansion and upward energy. After the stillness of winter our Qi begins to move again.

Ostara is the pagan name for this time of year.  It is a sacred threshold. It represents balance, renewal, and growth. It is a time to harmonise our inner and outer worlds, release what feels heavy and begin planting seeds for what we wish to cultivate. This is not a time for force or urgency. Instead, it invites gentle expansion, like the first buds of spring emerging naturally and steadily.

It is a golden opportunity to shake off winter’s hibernation mode and step into a season of renewal, balance and fresh possibilities. As the Earth reaches equilibrium, it offers an invitation to cleanse, reset and consciously shape the direction of the months ahead.

Why We Often Get Ill Around the Equinox

It is very common to experience symptoms such as a cough, sore throat, cold or virus around the time of the equinox. From a naturopathic perspective, this is not a coincidence.

Throughout winter, the body naturally slows down. There is less movement, heavier foods are often consumed and the body tends to store and conserve. This can lead to a degree of internal stagnation, particularly in the liver and lymphatic system.

As spring arrives, the body begins to shift from this dormant state into one of movement and cleansing. The liver becomes more active, circulation increases and the body starts to mobilise stored toxins and metabolic waste. This sudden shift can temporarily overwhelm the system, leading to symptoms that resemble illness but are often part of a natural clearing process.
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At the same time, the immune system is adapting to environmental changes such as increased pollen and fluctuating temperatures. The combination of internal cleansing and immune adjustment can make us feel run down or more susceptible to minor infections.
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Rather than seeing this as something going wrong, it can be helpful to recognise it as the body attempting to rebalance and transition into a new season.

Spring Cleansing for Liver, Sinus and Lymphatic Health

Spring invites us to support the body’s natural cleansing pathways, particularly the liver, lymphatic system and sinuses.
The liver plays a central role in processing toxins that we are exposed to daily, including environmental chemicals such as BPA, pesticides, air pollutants, flame retardants and phthalates. When the liver is supported, the whole body benefits, including hormonal balance, skin health and immune resilience.

Bitter herbs are especially important at this time of year. Traditionally associated with spring in both Western herbalism and Traditional Chinese Medicine, they help stimulate digestion and support liver function. Many of these herbs naturally appear in spring, aligning perfectly with the body’s needs. Milk thistle can also be used as a supportive supplement for ongoing liver support.

The lymphatic system works alongside the liver to remove waste from the body, including excess fluid, cellular debris and metabolic byproducts. It also plays a crucial role in immune defence.

Unlike the circulatory system, the lymphatic system does not have its own pump. It relies on movement to flow effectively. During winter, when we are often less active, lymphatic circulation can become sluggish. This can contribute to fatigue, puffiness, congestion and increased susceptibility to illness.

Gentle movement such as walking, stretching or time outdoors can help stimulate lymph flow. Lymphatic massage, whether self applied or professional, can also support drainage and reduce stagnation.  
By supporting both the liver and lymphatic system, we prepare the body for seasonal changes, including allergy season. A well supported system is better able to respond to pollen and environmental triggers.

Herbs such as nettle and skullcap can help support a balanced histamine response, easing symptoms such as sinus pressure, runny nose, and watery eyes.

Seven Herbs for the Spring Equinox

Many of the plants that emerge in spring, often dismissed as weeds, carry powerful medicinal and energetic properties.

Nettle
Traditionally used for protection and cleansing, nettle is rich in nutrients and supports iron levels, blood building and a healthy histamine response. It also helps flush excess fluid through the urinary system.

Cleavers
Cleavers support the lymphatic system and help move stagnant fluid through the body. They are particularly useful for detoxification and reducing lymphatic congestion.

Calendula
Bright and uplifting, calendula supports skin health, digestion and lymphatic flow. It has soothing and restorative properties both internally and externally.

Dandelion
A deeply nourishing plant, dandelion supports liver function, hormone balance and detoxification. The leaf is mineral rich and supports fluid balance, while the root stimulates liver activity.

Honeysuckle
Traditionally associated with attracting positive energy, honeysuckle also supports immune function, reduces inflammation and assists with clearing heat from the body. Never eat the berries though! 

Burdock Root
Burdock is a powerful blood cleanser and liver support herb. It helps the body eliminate toxins through the skin and can be particularly helpful for conditions such as acne, eczema and sluggish digestion.

Chickweed
Chickweed is a gentle, cooling herb that supports the lymphatic system and soothes inflammation. It is often used for skin conditions and can help with fluid retention and internal heat.

It is important to ensure herbs are sourced safely and correctly identified, especially when foraging.

Supporting Your Spiritual Wellbeing This Season

Spring energy can feel uplifting but also slightly overwhelming as everything begins to move again. Supporting your nervous system during this transition is just as important as supporting the physical body.

Spend time in nature, even if only briefly. Open your windows and allow fresh air to circulate through your home. Take time to journal your intentions for the coming months. Grounding practices can help you stay centred as energy begins to rise.
Ask yourself what you are ready to grow into?

Morning Energy Cleansing Ritual
The mornings around the equinox is an ideal time to clear stagnant energy and set intentions.
Begin with gentle breathwork. Sit quietly and take slow, steady breaths, inhaling for a count of four, holding for four and exhaling for four. This helps calm the mind and bring the body into balance.
Then write down three things you would like to cultivate this season, whether related to your health, relationships, or personal growth.

Guided Meditation for Balance and Renewal
Sit comfortably, either outside or near a window where you can feel the light. Close your eyes and imagine a beam of light running from the crown of your head to the base of your spine.
Visualise this light extending upward toward the sun and downward into the earth, connecting you to both energies. Silently repeat the affirmation: I am grounded, balanced, and ready for renewal.
Sit in stillness for several minutes, allowing this sense of balance to settle within your body.

Planting Your Intentions
The equinox is the perfect time to plant seeds, both literally and symbolically.
Plant herbs or flowers such as lavender or rosemary. As you do, focus on your intentions and imagine them taking root and growing steadily over the coming months.

Movement to Activate Energy
Movement helps release stagnation and welcomes the dynamic energy of spring.
Gentle practices such as yoga, particularly grounding postures like Tree Pose or Warrior II, can help create stability while encouraging flow. A mindful walk in nature allows you to reconnect with the rhythms of the season.

Spring Equinox Affirmations
I embrace balance and harmony in all areas of my life
I am open to new beginnings and opportunities for growth
I release the old and welcome the new with gratitude

Closing Thoughts

The Spring Equinox is a powerful reminder that balance is not something we force, but something we return to.
As the light begins to grow, so too does the potential within you. This is your invitation to move gently out of winter, to support your body with care and to reconnect with what truly matters.

There is no need to rush. Nature does not rush and yet everything unfolds exactly as it should.
Take this moment to pause, to breathe, and to begin again.