Chinese medicine gives us numerous mental, physical and nutritional tools to help us maintain balance all year round. There is much focus around the seasons of the year, where each of our organs are associated with each season. Winter is of the Kidneys and Bladder which rule water metabolism and maintaining homeostasis, a dynamic continual rebalancing. Winter is also the most ‘yin’ time of the year – yin is dark, cold, slow, with inward energy, compared to Summer which is light, hot, quick, with expansive qualities.
Some people feel quite energised by Winter, going snowboarding and being out in the chilly weather bush walking. While others retract, stay inside and can feel low in mood from the lack of light and physical activity.
Imbalances that can occur during the winter months include:
- Lower back pain – chronic or acute
- Knee pain and weakness
- Urinary retention or frequent urination
- Fatigue and shortness of breath
- Vertigo or dizziness
- Sexual problems – vaginal dryness, premature ejaculation, low libido
- Anxiety, low mood and excessive fear
- High blood pressure and/or headaches
- Inflexibility and resistance to change
Foods that are beneficial during the Winter months include:
Root vegetables, winter greens, mushroom, apple, pear, potato, squash, citrus fruits, kidney bean, black sesame seed, dark leafy greens, chicken, lamb, tempeh, whole grains, miso, unrefined sea salt, bone broths (organic).
Chinese medicine dietetic philosophy suggests that we embrace native foods, locally grown, and organic and/or chemical free where possible. Take time to sit down and enjoy your meal.
Tips to stay well this Winter:
- Take time to listen to your body and recharge
- Eat warming foods such as lamb and root vegetable stew, tempeh with leafy greens, miso soup or a kidney bean dish
- Keep hydrated with neutral temperature water and warming teas
- Keep warm – especially the upper back, neck and lower back
- Practice self acceptance – acknowledge emotions (such as fear), reflect, judge yourself less so that you can move forward (Spring is followed by Winter – the season that bursts with life)
- Don’t be afraid of your darker side – write things down in a journal without analysing
- Receive acupuncture to support the Kidneys and Bladder and maintain wellness
Exercise wise, we all do less during the cooler months as it is a time to rest and revitalise our kidneys, which is why some animals hibernate. Nature is at rest, and in this rest replenishes itself.
By eating well, regular exercise, paying attention to our bodies and harmonising ourselves to the seasons, we can stay healthier and prevent illness. Once we feel good and are maintaining a level of wellness that we all strive for, it allows us to enjoy the cooler months, whether its indoors or hitting the waves (with a wetsuit!). Thus, Winter is the perfect time to look inward, reflect on ourselves, practice writing or other practices such as yoga, pilates or tai chi.
Take care of you, see you in the clinic,
TK xx
Tanya Keam Wellness is an experienced health clinic on the Sunshine Coast. Helping you to feel better in all aspects of your health and wellbeing.