"The three months of winter are called closing and storing.Water freezes, earth cracks.
Do not disturb the yang at all.
Early to bed, late to rise.
(One) must await the daylight.
Make that which is of the heart/mind as though hidden, as though concealed, as though (one) has a secret intention, already obtained.
Leave the cold, seek warmth.
Do not leak the skin (sweat). Urgently hold onto the Qi.
This is the winter compliance of chi and the cultivation of the Dao of storage. To oppose these principles injures the kidneys." —Huang Di Nei Jing, Chapter 2
Winter: The Water element season - 水
Winter: Water movement
Yin organs: Kidneys and adrenals
Yang organ: Urinary Bladder
color: black
flavor: salty
climate: cold
emotion: fear
Sensory organ: ears
Tissue: hair and teeth
Eating wisely for winter
What to eat
Black colored foods: black sesame, black beans, wood-ear mushrooms, black olives
Warming meats: lamb, beef, chicken, turkey and trout.
Seaweed is salty in nature and strengthens the kidneys
Warming spices: black pepper, Sichuan pepper, ginger
include a little bit of yin nourishing Radish to protect the Yin within the Yang
How to eat
If you are reducing your activity, reduce your food intake
To combat the cold, eat warm meals and avoid raw foods
Eat slow burning foods, such as whole-grains, root vegetables, beans, and nuts.
Eat in a quiet environment
Lifestyle for winter
Winter is the season to Hibernate! Go to bed early and wake up later.
Favor meditation and introspection, and restorative yoga practices.
Reduce exercise intensity and avoid sweating too much
Keep your joints covered and warm
And don't forget, talk to your acupuncturist !
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