During winter, when temperatures plunge and sunlight is limited, we often face new challenges to well-being. Here are some practical tips that combine Western and traditional Chinese perspectives to help us stay healthy and youthful during the cold season.
Store Essence and Protect the Kidneys in Winter
From a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) perspective, winter is a season of “storage,” in which energy is conserved. The energy of the natural world retreats inward during this time. Winter is the best season for nourishing the kidneys because the kidneys store essence, aligning with the season’s characteristic of conserving energy. The kidneys are closely linked to growth, development, vitality, and immunity. Therefore, supporting kidney health in winter is essential for maintaining energy and strengthening the immune system.TCM places great emphasis on kidney health. This is because the kidney is called the “innate foundation,” meaning that its energy cannot be easily replenished. Therefore, it’s better to reduce its energy expenditure. With sufficient kidney qi (the fundamental energy source of human physiological activities), the body will be strong and full of energy. This is why avoiding overexertion is important, focusing on nourishing the body through diet and minimizing activities that deplete kidney energy.
