Synchronise with the Seasons - The Winter Solstice

The cycle resets with the Winter Solstice - the shortest day and longest night of the year. After this point, daylight hours slowly begin to increase with rising yang energy.

Our health is connected to the natural cycles of the seasons which influences our body, mind and soul. Within us we have a vital Life Force referred to as Qi in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It is the energy that flows through us and circulates our bodies pathways known as meridians which link to key organs. The body is not separate from emotion or spirit; when something feels off it’s not just physical, emotional but whole body needing holistic balance and harmony.

Winter is a time to restore with the promise of longer days ahead and a time to reflect on the year. Cold reaches peak, and Earth enters hibernation, nature contracts inward and preserves energy for the spring ahead. Without rest and nourishment in winter we can become vulnerable in spring to illness and exhaustion.

TCM: The Shift of the Season

A still, restorative and inward Yin season in TCM the season's organs of focus are the kidney governing longevity and willpower has vital bodily functions for detoxification and filtering waste. It is paired with the bladder which eliminates waste and letting go of what is no longer needed. The water element encourages us to embrace stillness with depth to to flow around any obstacles.

8 Everyday Tips for Winter Restoration

For balance we need harmony, our bodies are ecosystems and thrive when all parts are nourished. Here are some ways to tune into and restore in the winter.

1. Diaphragmatic breathing in belly promotes relaxation

2. Protect from the cold and layer up keeping cosy including hands and feet

3. Journal and reflect on the year. Celebrate your wins and achievements small and big.

4. Stretch slow with Yin yoga with holds

5. Eat cooked tonifying and nutritious foods to nourish the body boost immunity

6. Moving matters enjoy walks in nature and activate the senses, natural light will help reset the body clock.

7. Qi Gong and flow the body in gentle movement

8. Our bodies burn more energy in the winter to keep warm, aim for 8 hours sleep as the best way to restore and recharge, try yoga nidra which provides a deep rest experience.

Winter Foods for your Shopping List

We are what we eat which also affects how we think and feel. Eat whole and unprocessed foods to build your food foundation. Some nourishing ingredients below to add to your meals. Eat seasonally and include a variety of foods to balance your plate.

Pause

Learning and reflection thrive in this season, read, reflect, learn to deepen stillness and internal growth. Take 5 inner minutes today and note some self reflections.

Follow on Instagram

Want to explore personal health coaching contact to book a FREE 15 minute discovery call