Winter is showing you that this is the time where you are the embryo in the womb, the seed in the darkness. This is the time where nature asks- what do you need to heal, to feel safe enough to become whole, to become who you deeply are.
What needs attending to so you can rest well in your body, what needs loving so you can grow well in the light that is to come.”
-Brigit Anna McNeill
Illustration by:Jessica Boehman
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Qigong, the winter season is associated with specific organs and energies believed to be most vulnerable and influential during this time. The lungs and kidneys are especially important in winter due to their roles in the seasonal balance of the body’s qi (vital energy) and their connection to the natural elements and processes of the season.
Lung in Winter:
- Elemental Connection:
- The lung is associated with the Metal element and is closely tied to the autumn season. However, its role extends into winter as the lungs regulate the body’s protective qi (wei qi), which helps ward off external pathogens such as cold and dampness.
- Functions in TCM:
- Governs respiration and aids in distributing qi throughout the body.
- Regulates the skin and body surface, acting as a barrier against cold.
- In TCM, the lungs are considered vulnerable to dryness and cold, which can impair their function.
- Health Practices:
- Breathing Exercises: Specific Qigong practices emphasise deep, gentle breathing, which can strengthen lung qi. This also enhances immunity during cold weather.
- Dietary Support: Foods that moisten the lungs, such as pears, almonds, and honey, are encouraged.
- Emotional Aspect:
- The lungs are connected to grief and sadness. Practising mindfulness, meditation, or Qigong can help balance emotions, supporting lung health.
Kidney in Winter:
- Elemental Connection:
- The kidney is associated with the Water element and is considered the most critical organ during winter. It is the seat of jing (essence), which governs growth, reproduction, and vitality.
- Functions in TCM:
- Stores vital energy and governs the body’s reserves, including the ability to endure cold.
- Balances fluids and supports the lower back and knees, areas prone to weakness in winter if the kidneys are depleted.
- Influences the bones, ears, and brain.
- Winter’s Influence:
- Winter is a yin season characterized by stillness and introspection. It is seen as a time to nourish the kidneys and conserve energy.
- Health Practices:
- Qigong for the Kidneys: Gentle, grounding movements focusing on the lower back and kidneys can help strengthen kidney qi and preserve essence.
- Warmth and Rest: Keeping the lower back warm and avoiding overexertion are critical for kidney health.
- Dietary Support: Foods like black sesame seeds, walnuts, kidney beans, and warming spices like ginger and cinnamon support kidney health.
- Emotional Aspect:
- Fear is the emotion linked to the kidneys. Practices like meditation and grounding Qigong exercises help reduce fear and stabilize kidney qi.
TCM and Qigong Synergy for Winter:
- Breathing Practices:
Combining lung-focused Qigong breathing exercises with kidney-strengthening postures creates a balance between the upper and lower body, harmonizing the movement of qi. - Seasonal Alignment:
TCM emphasizes aligning with the natural rhythms of winter:- Early bedtime and good sleep to preserve yang energy.
- Quiet and reflective practices to nurture the yin energy.
- Preventive Measures:
Winter is a time to protect both the lungs and kidneys from the cold. Dressing warmly and avoiding exposure to drafts, especially in the chest and lower back, is vital.
By focusing on the lungs and kidneys, TCM and Qigong offer a framework to maintain balance and vitality, fostering resilience against winter’s challenges and preparing for the renewal of spring.