Winter is the Season of the Water Element

January 14, 2013 — chi, kidneys, TCM, water, winter

The elemental nature of winter coincides with water. Diet and activity can make a big difference to our health during the cold season. Water and the kidney meridian will determine if you are easy going and flowing, or timid and fearful. Your basic constitution, your resilience, is found in the health of your kidneys. During winter it is important to cover the head, neck, and abdomen to stay warm. It is helpful to eat a diet that includes some ginger and cranberries, to preserve the water balance in the body. Nettles are an herbal remedy that also works very well as a balancing tonic. You can simply drink tea made from nettles, which has a very mild flavor, but a powerful effect.

If you have too much water you will feel sluggish and swollen. Too little will result in bitterness and brittle bones. All the organs depend on the kidneys to balance PH and electrolytes. During winter the kidneys are most vulnerable, prone to deficiency or excess. This causes a stagnation of all the organ functions. this sluggish state causes depression and confusion. Simple movements such as the qigong above, twists and bends the area of the kidneys to bring fresh circulation to the adrenals and kidneys. This one is simple to follow, but there are many examples you can learn. TCM is becoming more popular in the US because it works. Try it. You might like it, and your renal system will thank you for it.