Living with the Seasons: Winter

Winter is here. The changes in the seasons constantly affect us, and coping with these changes can be difficult. When we don’t adjust well to the natural seasonal changes, we are more vulnerable to disease. The ancient Chinese acknowledge living our lives according to the seasons and its importance to our health. The qualities and traits of winter affect our eating, dressing and lifestyle habits. By living with the seasons, we maintain balance, protect our constitutional essence, and prevent illness.

Winter is associated with storage. The sun sets early and rises late – it is a time to retreat and replenish your resources. In Chinese medicine, the winter is associated with the Kidneys, Adrenals and Bladder which regulate fluid metabolism, bone health, reproduction, and endocrine system. They also store our constitutional essence, and by strengthening the kidneys, we help protect and maintain our health throughout the entire year.

Herbs and foods that are warm, build strength and energy and are most suitable for our bodies in the winter. It is time to eat all cooked foods to aid digestion and keep our inner fires burning strong (and avoid iced drinks, juices, raw foods and salads). Eat protein such as lamb cooked with ginger, oxtail or bone marrow soups, root and leafy greens, black beans, roasted buckwheat, winter squash and walnuts. Try hot apple cider with cardamon, ginger and cinnamon, instead of juices. Prepare meals with warming spices, such as onions, garlic, ginger, cumin, fennel, fenugreek and parsley. To help the kidney’s energy, add seaweed and nettles to teas and soups.

Dress warm and protect your lower back, exercise regularly to keep warm, take naps and go to bed early, enjoy the extra quiet time of winter to reflect, meditate, and share stories with family and friends around the fire.