Winter Wellness

Well, it's Minnesota and we all knew it would be happening at some time, and the time is now. The weather is taking change and the winter fun, for some, is fast approaching. This is also a time to take care of our system due to the increased vulnerabilitiy of getting sick and run down.

I just wanted to hit on a couple things about winter and take a look at it through a Chinese perspective. Each season is associated with an organ, according to chinese medicine, and for winter it is the Kidneys. The foundation of our entire organ system. You all heard of Yin and Yang, Yin associated with cold and Yang with heat. So knowing that, its obvious that winter is a Yin season and related to the water element in the 5 Element Cycle ( along with Bladder ). 

During this time of the year our body's  energy naturally goes inward and has the effect of slowing down, replenishing and reflecting on the previous seasons. By conserving energy during this time, we improve our health to allow us to gracefully flow into the spring and summer months with extra energy and alertness.

During this time, Acupuncture treatments can aid in building the Kidney energy, the Essence, due to the winter season associating with the Kidneys. It is natural to want to rest during this time. Too much activity and stress can easily deplete the Kidneys which are the root of our vitality. The Kidneys give our bodies the strenth and warmth, it so much desires, along with other life and anti aging functions.

When the Kidneys are weak, we become tired and achy in the legs and back. We also notice changes in our hormanal balances and sex drive.

If you are looking for something that will boost your immune system, reduce stress and help you manage these cold Minnesota winters...Acupuncture  "Tune-Ups" might be for you! Many people think they need to have a problem in order to see an Acupuncturist and that is understandable. However, do your body a favor this winter season and get ahead of the game by keeping your system healthy and strong during this time of sickness and stress. I look forward in seeing you!