A TCM Approach To Winter Wellness

In Chinese Medicine theory, there are five natural elements that exist within us, as they do in nature and each season belongs to one of these elements. By observing the cycles of nature, we are able to learn about how to maintain our own health and wellness.

Winter’s Associations In Chinese Medicine

ELEMENT: WATER

YIN ORGAN: KIDNEYS

YANG ORGAN: URINARY BLADDER

EMOTION: FEAR

CLIMATE: COLD

COLOR: BLACK/DARK BLUE 

TASTE: SALTY  

SENSE ORGANS: EARS

TISSUES: BONE  

VIRTUES: STRENGTH, COURAGE, WISDOM

Winter is the time to slow down in order to replenish the energies we have used throughout the year. Taking advantage of shorter days gives us that time to get more sleep, cozy up with a cup of tea and a good book, or cook a nice pot of soup.

There is a depth to the season that invites us to become more introspective and perhaps visit some untouched emotions. For some of us we feel the relief of slowing down and doing some inner work, but for others it can be challenging and lead to depression, loneliness, or seasonal affective disorder. However it is felt in the winter months, the teachings and practices of Chinese Medicine supports the body, mind, and spirit in the midst of change.

The Water Element

Winter is ruled by the water element. The wisdom of water is to flow.  Water moves effortlessly and takes the form of whatever contains it. A balanced water element is able to move smoothly through the season with strength, courage, and will.

The emotion that is associated with the water element is fear. Fear is essential for human survival. It’s an innate alert system that we have carried since the beginning of our existence. When our water element is out of balance however, we might experience phobias, lack of courage, or excess fear.

Kidney & Bladder

The kidney and urinary bladder are the organs that belong to the water element. Both are responsible for fluid regulation and there are points along the meridians of these organs that influence them. According to TCM (Traditonal Chinese Medicine) the Kidneys are the house of our vital energy or Jing which is connected to the cycles of life. Basically it is our genetics which govern our growth and reproduction. Our bones, teeth, ears, brain, and marrow are influenced by the kidneys. 

If the Kidney energy is low, one might experience symptoms such as weakness of the knees, frequent urination, fertility issues, low back ache, or hearing loss. If there is an imbalance of the bladder, one might experience back pain, headache, or vertigo. Emotionally, an imbalance of the bladder or kidneys might present as excessive fear, low motivation, jealousy, or holding grudges.

Winter is an opportunity to focus on the health and spirit of the kidneys and urinary bladder. Slowing down, getting plenty of rest, eating well and in-season, drinking lots of fluids, and adapting a restorative wellness routine will support these organ systems and boost their vitality.  It is a great time to reflect, meditate, journal, or practice breathwork.

Winter Food Therapy

There are certain foods that support the Water element in TCM. These foods are typically dark in color, salty in taste, hydrating and nourishing. Examples include:

Nuts & Seeds

Salt Water Fish

Shellfish

Seaweed

Legumes

Dark Berries

Root Vegetables

Soups & Stews

During this season raw and uncooked foods should be limited and warm cooked foods should be mostly what you eat. Use warming spices such as garlic, ginger, cinnamon, and cardomom. Want some ideas for boosting health through diet? Click here.

Herbal Medicine

Certain herbal supplements are particularly beneficial during the colder months. Some of these include astragalus for energy, holy basil and St. John’s wort for mood, ginger and elderberry for immunity. An acupuncturist can also prescribe an herbal formula specific to your health needs.

Acupuncture

Schedule an appointment! A seasonal tune-up will be restorative, deeply nourishing, and strengthening for the kidney qi. Rest is the theme of the season so your time on the treatment table will guarantee you that time for yourself.