Winter is a time to Slow the Fast

Winter began on November 7th according to the lunar calendar. What does that mean for us? Even if it still looks like Fall on the visible level, on an energetic level we are in Winter time. During this time we see Nature slows down and becomes quiet; some trees become dormant, flowers stop blooming, animals hibernate. This is a time to do less, rest and recharge. 

Unfortunately our culture is obsessed with spending both money and energy during this time of year. Instead of slowing down, we speed up in order to fit in all of the parties, shopping, cards, groceries, cooking, hosting, etc. While these are festive activities that have become a societal expectation, they go against Natural Law. If we go against Natural Law, we will run out of energy come Spring time which can lead to us experiencing emotional and physical symptoms including seasonal allergies, high blood pressure, mood swings, and digestive issues.

The Kidney and Bladder are the organs associated with Winter in TCM. The Kidney is seen as our powerhouse or our “battery”. It stores our “inherited Qi” which is something we are born with in a finite supply. When our inherited Qi runs out, our life is over. So it is essential to protect this Qi by not relying on it for day to day activities. If you have strong digestion and a quality Qigong practice you can avoid using up your Kidney Qi unnecessarily.  

If you have anxiety or depression in Winter this is a sign of a Kidney function disorder and it’s even more important for you to slow down and hold in your energy this time of year. Your body is saying it has an energy deficiency and it’s even more important for you to nurture yourself during this time.

Here are some ways to support your body during Winter:

• Go to bed early (at least by 11pm)

• Stay off screens during mealtimes

• Eat more soups and warming foods

• Slow down and rest more 

• Be peaceful and not let yourself get overly emotional

• Practice Qigong instead of physical exercise

• Keep your body warm by wearing enough clothing

• Massage your ears to keep them warm and increase circulation body-wide

• Take a warm bath before bed or soak your feet in warm water for a relaxing foot bath

These are just some of the ways you can nurture yourself during this season. Your body will thank you for it and you can emerge healthier in Springtime.

© Marie Yuann 2024