Winter is in full force! The weather is getting colder and hats and scarves are making their way into fashion. Here are a few characteristics of season according to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

Nature: Yin

In Chinese medicine, the Winter season  represents Yin. Yin is a dark, cold, slow, and inward energy. In contrast, Yang energy in Summer is light, hot, quick, and outwards focused.

Element: Water

The water element encourages looking into oneself, modesty and sensibility. Water also associates with wisdom, stamina and endurance. When water is out of balance you might have difficulty with social situations, trusting and being confident. Water imbalance can also lead to a lack of self awareness. During the cold winter season, take the time to look inwards, self-reflect, and meditate!

Organ: Kidney

The Kidneys are related to the Winter season and they hold much of our body’s energy. This season, rest is important for revitalizing the kidneys. As with the water element, it is also a good time to look inward and reflect on ourselves with meditation, writing, or other inward practices such as Tai Chi and Qi Gong. These practices help us connect to our inner selves and support kidney energy. They can also help relax the mind, calm our emotions, and raise the spirit.

Emotion: Fear

The emotion of Fear comes with Winter and the Water element. Fear is healthy when our Kidney energy is balanced. It keeps us alert to our surroundings and leads us to action. When our Kidneys are imbalanced, fear can manifest in anxiety and paranoia. By supporting the Kidneys, we can have the energy and strength to transform fear into trust! 

Taste: Salty

Salt has a cooling thermal nature, it moistens Yin,  and counters dryness. Also, it helps to cool your body down from heat that is caused from exterior weather or interior emotions. The salty flavor encourages Yin and fluids to rebuild and counter the dryness. In addition, salty flavors will help build fluids by making your body crave more water! 

Color: Black

In the Winter, TCM recommends black foods! These can help support your kidneys which will provide you the energy you need to be healthy throughout the season. Black sesame seeds, wild black rice, chia seeds, blackberries, seaweed, and black beans can help nourish your kidneys.

This Winter, drink lots of water, enjoy some salty, savory, and black foods, and take some time to reflect! Whether it’s through meditation, yoga, or journaling, taking the time to build self-awareness during this cold season can help grow your emotional and physical wellness.