The winter season is the time of stillness, when nature’s energy turns inward. This most yin of seasons is represented by the yin element of water and emphasizes the deep seed of potential that exists even when things seem dead and barren on the outside. Winter is not so surprisingly associated with the climatic factor of cold and becomes the time for hibernation, with nature’s Qi energy slowing due to the colder, shorter days. It is in the winter we are more apt to wake with a groan as the cold weather creates deep aches to our bones; winter’s sound is thus groaning and it’s tissue is bone. The organs and channels associated with water and the winter season are the Yang organ of the Urinary Bladder and the Yin organ of the Kidney.
As nature turns inward with hibernation and bare limbs, so should we take time to turn inward to our inner pool for reflection and replenishment. The season is not only for rest, but also for replenishing the reserve tanks and preparing for the year to come. The shorter day means it is alright to be in bed earlier and wake a little later, giving the body the extended rest to make up for the past year, and to fortify the seed for the coming spring. Winter is the time to eat warm and hearty, filling the reserve’s and preparing the body for the heavy work to be done in the spring and summer.
Turning to the internal work of meditation and concentration helps rest the body while preparing mentally for the potential of what is to come after winter’s frost has thawed. Taking the winter months to be more reflective gives us the opportunity to know and learn about ourselves, giving us better knowledge of what gives us fulfillment and where best to put our time. A full reserve stored over a long winter strengthens our will and courage to help us follow through with our goals. Without the strength of these reserves, will and courage turn to water’s emotion of fear, which prevents us from accomplishing our objectives.
As the seasons change, our bodies are meant to shift along with them. For some, the season changes are not smooth, with winter bringing on cold body pains, low energy, possible urination issues, and increase in fear or sadness. When there are seasonal issues that come and go, or if there is a nagging problem that isn’t resolving, acupuncture and the other therapeutic techniques of Chinese Medicine can help increase the circulation of the body's functional energy, improving the communication throughout the body, and bringing about lasting change.
The season dictates we fight the urge of constant activity to take time for inner reflection, awareness, and strengthening. Following the quietude of nature allows for self-recollection, giving reinvigorated purpose and focus for the coming spring. Proper nourishment of the body and the spirit strengthen the body’s energy and reserves, preparing the seed of potential for a strong and robust spring bloom. Chinese Medical therapies of acupuncture, moxabustion, and cupping can help get you balanced when the body falls behind due to either injury or the changing seasons. Click here to book now!!
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