Winter and the Water Element: A Chinese Perspective to Seasonal Wellness

Acupuncture helps us live harmoniously with the seasons. In the transition to the cold winter months Chinese Medicine supports the mind, body and spirit. In Traditional Chinese Medicine Theory (TCM) there are five natural elements that exist within us, just as they do in nature. Winter correlates to the water element, which flows throughout and nourishes the entire body. Each of the five elements have an organ system pair. The kidneys and urinary bladder are the organ systems that belong to the water element. In TCM the kidneys store vital substances such as our Jing or “Essence”. Jing relates to our genetics, growth, reproduction and how we move through the cycles of life. The kidneys also house our will power, if the kidneys are strong our mind will be focused on goals that it sets itself and it will pursue them in a single-minded way. Our bones, joints, teeth, ears, brain and marrow are influenced by the kidneys. Over-work, lack of sleep and aging draw on and deplete the kidneys. When our kidneys are out of balance one might experience low back ache, weak knees, frequent urination, and menstrual or fertility issues. Other signs of imbalance could include excess fear, lack of courage, exhaustion, low motivation, autoimmune flare ups and skeletal disorders. In the winter we aim to embrace energy conservation, stillness, and rest. The cooler and darker days give space for rest and reflection. Nourishing ourselves during this time allows our body to heal and prepare for spring, a season of growth and abundance. 

So, why is seasonal change the time to get acupuncture? People by nature are imbalanced and these transitional times can exacerbate the imbalances that are already there. Acupuncture works to restore our balance of Qi or energy in each of our meridians. With the change of seasons also comes the importance of a strong immune system. TCM can provide a first line of defense. Acupuncture works to enhance our Wei Qi, also known as our immune system. With a strong healthy Wei Qi our body is able to fight off outside pathogens and resist disease.  Acupuncture supports the body’s own systems in their ability to heal and protect naturally. Prevention is the best way to support a healthy immune system. Acupuncture can also provide intervention during the early stages of disease to lessen the severity and recovery time. 

Here are a few tips to support your health while we head into the colder months:

Balance: Maintaining an appropriate balance between activity and rest is crucial to the health of our water element.

Protect your neck: The lungs rule the skin and the opening and closing of our pores. As the cold and wind start to ramp up the back of the neck is particularly vulnerable to wind invasion. Wind can contribute to the common cold, muscle tension and headaches. 

Food Therapy: Try to consume warm and cooked foods, while limiting cold raw foods. Use spices warm in nature such as garlic, ginger, cardamon and cinnamon. You can also focus on foods that share the qualities of the water element. Colors are dark, taste is salty, as well as hydrating and nourishing. This could include nuts, seeds and legumes, salt water fish, root vegetables, soups and stews. 

Reflection: Schedule more time for yourself. This could include meditation, yoga, breath work, tai chi or qi gong. 

Acupuncture: Boost your immune system, strengthen and balance the kidney and bladder meridians.

I look forward to seeing you on my table soon to support your health and wellness this winter!

Best,
Toria Lielasus: Licensed Acupuncturist, MAOM