Supporting Seasonal Wellbeing This Winter.
The essence of traditional Chinese medicine and therapies lies in the link between us and nature.
Therapists and practitioners believe that there are five natural elements within us and that each one must be kept in harmonious balance for us to be healthy and happy. When an imbalance occurs, we find ourselves suffering physical ailments, aches, pains and illness - never is this balance so finitely important than with the changing of the seasons.
Let’s take a closer look at the link between traditional Chinese medicine and the seasons - most notably Winter - to uncover how we can support wellbeing this Winter.
Traditional Chinese Medicine and Winter
Chinese medicine is all about creating links and connections between the natural world and what is going on inside our bodies - with winter’s associated element being water.
Winter is considered a time to conserve energy and allow ourselves to recuperate. Winter’s link to water is reflected in the need to conserve the energy flow in water and keep those stores topped up through plenty of rest and relaxation. When we drain the vital energy source of water during the winter months, we starve our organs - in particular the kidneys - of hydration and interrupt the flow of energy around the body which promotes and protects our wellbeing.
The fact that we need to protect and conserve our water sources in the winter months is further supported in Chinese medicine by the Yin and Yang organs: our kidneys and our urinary bladder - both of which belong to the water element and play a vital role in liquid regulation.
In the next section we will explore how traditional Chinese medicine can be applied during the winter months to remedy disruptions to our energy and issues with our bodies.
How can Traditional Chinese Medicine help you this Winter?
We’ve already mentioned how important the kidneys and urinary bladder are in regulating water and keeping energy reserves high in order to promote wellbeing over the Winter months. Under the art of traditional Chinese medicine, there are a few things we can do to help ourselves and these vital organs – these include acupuncture, herbal remedies, eating the right foods and integrating oils into our diet.
Acupuncture involves applying thin needle pressure into various targeted points around the body - in this case, points that relate directly to the kidneys and urinary bladder to ensure a smooth flow of water and energy around the body. When symptoms along the main energy channels arise, for example, exhaustion, aches and pains and excessive anxiety, acupuncture can be used to relieve a build-up and ensure energy is flowing freely.
Focussing on foods that share the same qualities as the water element is also important and is a good option for optimising your winter wellbeing. Herbs that strengthen the kidneys can further support a strong immune and hydration system this winter, as can essential oils which resonate with and connect our inner selves with the world around us.
Winter and Traditional Chinese Medicine
Winter is a time for rest and recuperation. Under the concept of traditional Chinese medicine this means a specific focus on the power of water - both in keeping your internal mind and physical body healthy and well balanced. Following some of the traditional Chinese therapies can help, heal and support you in the winter months - keeping your body and mind healthy and ready for the spring months ahead.