On November 7, Winter (Li Dong 立冬) begins and yin energy continues to rise as we move towards deep Winter. We have harvested our crops and it’s time to rest. This is also the time to nourish ourselves and to go within to store our essence. Traditionally, winter is dumplings season and people eat a rich diet at the start to prepare for the coming cold.
Winter is the time of Kidney and Bladder Function Energy, the Water Element, colour blue-black, and the attitude of fear. Kidney and Bladder energy has to do with fluid circulation, muscles and matter, bone marrow, reproduction, and accumulations. This is a great time to support your Kidney and Bladder energy.
Self Care for Winter
- prioritize slow living and rest
- rejuvenating practices such as tai chi and yin yoga
- warming foods such as bone broth and spices
- try traditional foods such as fish in your cooking
- sunlight to support mitochondrial function
- keep the lower back, feet, and neck warm
- continue to let go of what’s come up for releasing during the autumn
- take care not to take too much sweet food as this depletes kidney energy
- time for introspection
- keep warm from wind
- hold your index finger to support your Kidney and Bladder energies
According to the 24 Solar Terms, Winter includes six periods – Start of Winter, Minor Snow, Major Snow, Winter Solstice, Minor Cold, and Major Cold, with the last one completing the year. Over the next few months of winter, build your self care practice to ground and store your essence and energy for the new year, when the 24 Solar Terms begins next Spring on February 4.
