Chinese medicine, and its theory of the Five Elements, was created thousands of years ago through observation of nature. Each season is seen as a transformative stage, a pattern of expansion and contraction, each with its own intrinsic primal energy. Each of the five seasons correspond to an organ of the five organ network, and relate to an element (wood, fire, earth, metal and water).
Imagine yourself as a microcosm of nature in harmony with the flow of the current season.
As the winter solstice of December approaches, we will be transitioning from Autumn, a season of yin transformation, into Winter, the cold and dark season, a season of utmost yin energy, which corresponds to the Water element.
Winter is an optimal time to rest, restore our reserves for the next season ahead, and reflect inwardly. The organ network associated with winter is the Kidney/Bladder.
The organ networks associated with winter are the Kidney and Bladder.
Here are some tips to nourish the Kidneys and harmonize with the Water element to stay healthy during the Winter season based on principles of traditional Chinese medicine:
Bundle up and stay warm to bring warmth and Qi to the acupuncture channels involved with immunity - the lower back (kidneys), the neck, and the feet.
Drink plenty of water and eat warming foods.
Traditionally, foods that are black in color are considered nourishing to the Kidneys. Think black sesame seeds, black beans, black quinoa, and seaweeds. A moderate amount of salty food can help nourish the kidneys, so fish and shellfish are good sources of protein at this time of year.
Conserve energy with moderate exercise with fluid, water-like movements, such as tai chi, qigong, yoga or dance.
To learn more about how acupuncture and Chinese Medicine can help benefit your overall wellness, fertility or reduction of pain, reach out to us Double Happiness Health. We offer acupuncture, herbal medicine and more to folks in San Francisco and the greater Bay Area.