Reflection and quiet time
We should emulate the quiet and stillness of winter. Include practices like mindfulness, journaling or meditation; look inwards and reflect on the last year. Qi Gong is a practice that cultivates energy. Listening to music, stargazing, enjoying a hot beverage, or taking a gong-bath are all suggestions.
Enjoy some sunshine
Seasonal Affective disorder (SAD) can be triggered by the lack of sunlight at this time of the year. It could also be that our bodies are not producing enough Vitamin D, which is produced by sunlight. Take a walk in daylight. This will improve circulation, blood flow, and release endorphins. These are chemicals produced naturally that make you feel good.
Warm up with nourishing food
Chinese medicine tells us to eat seasonal, warming foods in winter. Food should be cooked slowly and longer. Ideal meals are soups and stews. These meals are nourishing and warm. Avoid cold, raw and sour foods during this season as they will require more energy to digest. Sit down, chew and eat regularly. Keep hydrated.
Stay warm
Staying warm is important. Dress for the weather. Acupuncturists recommend always wearing a scarf. A point of acupuncture on the back of the neck, called the “wind gate”, is especially sensitive to wind and cold. This point is susceptible to colds and the flu if exposed. For Acupuncture Tewkesbury, visit https://www.purelandsacu.co.uk/acupuncture-tewkesbury
Acupuncture
In Chinese medicine, winter is the season of the water element. The water element is linked to the kidneys and the bladder. The kidneys, also known as qi or energy, are believed to be our source of life force. The kidneys are the repository of all the essences of living. This energy is used up by our current lifestyles and can weaken the kidney qi, especially during this time of the year. Acupuncture is designed to nourish, boost and nurture kidney qi. This will help us heal and improve our vitality.
