Mind and Meditation
Lì Dōng marks the beginning of the Winter Three Months. In TCM, this is the time of Cang – storing, collecting and preserving our vital energy. As nature retreats inwards, we should follow her example, allowing ourselves time for quiet reflection, reducing unnecessary stimulation and finding moments of stillness. Winter is a time to nourish our inner world rather than constantly looking outwards.
Food and Drink
Our diet should begin to change towards warm, cooked and nourishing foods. Root vegetables, sweet potato, yam, white radish and warming ginger are excellent choices. Chestnuts are particularly valuable at this time, supporting the Kidneys, Spleen and digestion. Walnuts and Black Sesame are another good option.
Winter is associated with the Kidneys, but TCM also reminds us to protect the Heart. The traditional advice is to reduce excessive salty foods and introduce small amounts of bitter foods such as celery, lettuce and bitter gourd. Black sesame, black rice and wood ear mushrooms are also worth including.
Try red date, longan and goji berry tea, or a warming chestnut and red date chicken soup. Begin nourishing gradually rather than immediately turning to heavy foods and tonics.
Exercise
Keep moving, but change the intensity. Walking, Tai Chi, and gentle yoga are ideal. Aim for a gentle warmth and perhaps a little perspiration, rather than exhausting yourself or sweating heavily. Whenever possible, exercise during daylight hours.
Rest and Relaxation
The classical advice is to go to bed early and rise with the sun. Allow yourself more sleep and avoid pushing through tiredness. Winter is a time to replenish rather than continually spend your reserves.
Lifestyle
Protect your head, neck, back and feet from the cold. Wear warm layers and make the most of any winter sunshine, particularly allowing the midday sun to warm your back.
Seasonal Treatments
Acupuncture, gentle moxibustion and warming treatments can help support circulation and maintain warmth as we enter winter. Pay particular attention to the lower back, abdomen and feet.
As the days shorten, remember that this is not a time to fight against nature. It is a time to slow down, keep warm and preserve the energy we will need when spring returns.
This content is offered to support awareness, not to “fix” you. It reflects a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective and is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for individual medical care or a one to one consultation and treatment.
For more information about how Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine can assist you in this season, to make an appointment.
Call Dan Lloyd on 07815814886
