Today is the first day of winter!

In Chinese Medicine, winter is seen as the most Yin time of the year. Yin is slow, dark and cold, causing energy to move inwards. As the temperature cools, our bodies have a natural instinct to withdraw and nurture ourselves.  Just as the trees lose their leaves, it is the same for us as our actions slow and our minds move deeper. These months are the perfect time to develop or deepen a meditation practise.

In Chinese Medicine, each season has an associated organ, and for winter, this organ is the Kidneys. The Kidneys house our fundamental energy and are in charge of birth, growth, reproduction and development.

A guiding principal in Chinese Medicine is that by living and harmonising yourself with the seasons, you are able to cultivate your health and prevent disease.  Therefore winter is the perfect time to give your Kidneys some extra attention and love.

Overworking the mind, body and spirit easily impacts the energy and functioning of the Kidney system. Now is the best time to say a polite no to any extra commitments and indulge in some relaxation and self-care.

Now is the time to R E S T.

Some ways to help strengthen and support the Kidneys during this time is to indulge in nourishing foods, writing and reflective practices such as meditation, Yin style Yoga and Qi Gong. As the Kidney channel begins at the soles of the feet, make sure you always keep them cosy and warm, so no walking barefoot on cold tiles.

During the cooler months we don’t want extra cold entering our bodies, so this means no icy cold drinks and no cold raw food. Everything we consume needs to be warm, cooked and nourishing.

Winter food is all about hearty soups and stews. The best ones for us during these months include sweet potatoes, squash, mushrooms, root vegetables and kidney beans. And for fruits, try mandarins, oranges and strawberries.

Regular Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine treatments are a fantastic way to support and strengthen the body and especially the Kidneys during the winter months. Your practitioner can guide you through lifestyle and dietary choices to best suit your body and your health.