Winter, a time of rest and renewal, is the season of the Kidney. The Kidney stores all of our inborn or “pre-natal Qi” and distributes it to organ systems needing a boost as they get depleted from stressful situations, overuse, and our unbalanced lifestyles. It therefore becomes essential that our behaviors and diet in the wintertime are supportive of the Kidney.

So how do we go about living a lifestyle that supports this essential organ system? First and foremost, slow down and conserve your energy. This is imperative throughout the year, but especially in Winter. Take a cue from everything in the natural world. As the cold of winter draws near, animals rest to conserve energy, and plants either complete their life cycles or go dormant until spring. Many trees drop their leaves in fall in preparation for winter—shedding all unnecessary items so they have less to support throughout the coldest season of the year.

Bundle up! Ensure your skin and ears are protected on cold and windy days. Wear warm clothes—especially socks and a hat! The old wives’ tale is true—you lose heat from your head and feet. This is why newborn babies are given a hat in the hospital, regardless of the season. Keeping your skin protected from the elements allows the body to conserve its precious Qi. It’s better to have your Qi when you need it—to get and stay healthy—than to use it to keep the body warm!

Food is not just something we eat for survival—it is meant to be enjoyed and savored. When preparing a meal, it’s important to be cognizant of the season and the foods that energetically support the organ “on call” in a given season. Black beans, seaweed, shellfish, bone soups, cauliflower, and nuts—namely walnuts, pine nuts and black sesame seeds—give the Kidney an energetic boost and support the body through the winter season. When it’s cold outside, remember to bring warmth within. Add spices, such as cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and turmeric to your dishes. Blanch, saute, stir fry, or bake vegetables. And eat within the growing season in your area. Nature provides the best foods that give the body just what it needs.

Expand Your Scope

Many of the principles addressed here are taught in our Dragon’s Way Qigong® program. This 6-week course immerses you in Five Element Consciousness, while teaching you Qigong movements and an eating-for-healing plan that helps your body let go of what it no longer needs. Build a healthier you!