Winter is upon us! The season officially begins on the winter solstice—Monday, December 21st. Winter is the most yin, feminine, and internal time of year. A sort of hibernation with our eyes open, if you will. 

In Chinese medicine, winter is associated with the kidneys and the bladder. Winter is also associated with the water element, the color black, the emotion of fear, and the salty flavor. 

Symptoms of Imbalance: Feeling fearful, indecisive, or timid. Having joint pain, low back pain, or weakness in the knees/legs/ankles. Experiencing burning/painful/frequent urination, prostate or vaginal problems, water retention, or a low libido. Suffering from poor hearing or ringing in the ears. Over-exercising or partying too hard. Not getting enough sleep and burning the candle at both ends. Feeling frustrated and having a tendency to hoard things. 

Tools to Balance: We can make time to socialize so that we don’t become too isolated (virtual and socially distant hangs count!), avoid excess exposure to cold and wear plenty of layers, keep our feet covered and avoid going barefoot, drink plenty of fluids, eat lots of soups/stews/warm foods, avoid cold and raw foods like smoothies and salads, limit our feelings of fear by journaling or seeking talk therapy, limit adrenaline rush activities, avoid overwork and make sure to get adequate rest, practice self-acceptance, and limit stimulants. We can slow down and make time for activities like taking a bath, reading a book, cooking a nourishing meal, enjoying a cup of tea, and making time to just be.

Foods to Balance: Focus on darkly colored and saltier foods. Also include: black beans, adzuki beans, grapes, brown rice, parsley, raspberries, black sesame seeds, miso, red meat, barley, bone broth, cinnamon, clove, dried ginger, eggs, fish, kidney beans, melon, millet, quinoa, seafood, seaweed, walnuts, and water chestnut. 

I hope these tips help you to feel your best this season and allow you to embrace this tranquil and magical time of year. Please comment below with any questions!

PC: Annie Spratt