If you feel tired and drained, you’re not alone. According to Oriental medicine, the cold months of winter are the perfect time to recharge your battery and generate vital energy – Qi, in order to live, look, and feel your best.
The ancient Chinese believed that humans should live in harmony with the natural cycles of their environment. The cold and darkness of winter urges us to slow down. Winter is ruled by the water element, which is associated with the kidneys, bladder and adrenal glands. The kidneys are considered the source of all energy or Qi within the body. They store all of the reserve Qi in the body so that it can be used in times of stress, or to heal, prevent illness, and age gracefully. During the winter months, it is important to nourish our Kidney Qi; it is the time when this energy can be most easily depleted. Our bodies are instinctively expressing the fundamental principles of winter – rest, reflection, conservation and storage. Eating warm soups, whole grains, and roasted nuts help to warm the body’s core and to keep us nourished. Sleep early, rest well, stay warm, and expend a minimum quantity of energy. Seasonal acupuncture treatments in winter serve to nourish kidney Qi which can greatly enhance the body’s ability to thrive in times of stress, aid in healing, prevent illness and increase vitality.
Here are some dietary suggestions that can lead to better health:
Water – The kidneys are associated with the water element. Drink ample water, at room
temperature, throughout the day.
Kidney Shaped Foods – Black beans and kidney beans are excellent examples of kidney
shaped foods that nourish and benefit Kidney Qi.
Blue and Black Foods – The colors blue and black correspond to the water element of the
kidneys and are thought to strengthen the Water element. Include blueberries,
blackberries, and black beans in your diet.
Seeds – Flax, pumpkin, sunflower and black sesame seeds relate to fertility and growth
which is governed by kidney Qi.
Nuts – Walnuts and chestnuts are especially effective for increasing kidney Qi.
Vegetables – Dark, leafy green vegetables are the best choice for kidney Qi. Also include
asparagus, cucumbers and celery.
Above information source: Diane Joswick, L.Ac., MSOM
For seasonal acupuncture treatments please call Dr. Lu of Ping’s Acupuncture at 661-513-9265.