Staying Warm during Winter.
While it may not be 10 degrees in Sarasota, Florida, it still has been quite chilly. In Chinese Medicine, Winter is a time to slow down and rest, which prepares us for the hustle and bustle of spring season. Thus, we have to take this time to find stillness, especially, when the temperatures drop.
Chinese Medicine theory correlates Winter to the Water element in the Five element cycle. The organs and meridians related to the water element are Kidneys, and Urinary Bladder and the color associated to water is blue/black. Below are some tips to stay warm and healthy during the depths of winter season.
Five Element Theory
Season: Winter
Element: Water
Color: Dark blue/black
Climate: Cold
Organs: Kidneys, Urinary bladder
Tips for Staying Warm and Healthy during Winter:
1) The low back region is associated with the Kidney and Urinary Bladder meridians, so it is important to keep this area warm during the winter season. Avoid sitting on cold benches, keep the back covered and warm, and take hot baths with epsom salt to improve circulation and warm the lumbar area.
2) Warm yourself from the inside out using food therapy. Add in warming spices to meals such as cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, turmeric, coriander seed, fennel seed, and black pepper to create internal warmth, aid in digestion, and alleviate pain from cold weather. In addition, use the color blue and black to guide choices. Foods that resonate with the water element/winter include: black sesame seeds, black beans, figs, raisins, blueberries, blackberries, plums and a pinch of healthy salt. Stay hydrated with warm broths, bone broth, and herbal teas.
3) A little movement is ok….So, maybe it is not the time of year to run your marathon, but you still want to keep the body moving to help with circulation, detoxification, and keep the body toned and flexible. Some amazing winter time exercises include gentle yoga stretches, Tai Chi, Qi Gong, and walks (if weather permits)
My favorite yoga pose to support the Kidney/Urinary Bladder meridians: Cat/Cow! This simple exercise can be done on all fours, or seated.
Cat/Cow Yoga Exercise. Arch back on inhale.
Cat/Cow Yoga Exercise. Round back on exhale.
To perform exercise seated: Sit in a comfortable chair, hands in lap. Simply use the breath to guide the back into arching and rounding. Repeat exercise 5-10 times.
And of course, regular acupuncture treatments not only balances the body, but help maintain a healthy back and support the body during winter. Sarasota, I am always here for your acupuncture and herbal needs. Stay Warm and enjoy the stillness of Winter.
-Dr. Jen