In Traditional Chinese Medicine winter is the season of the Water element and the Kidneys and is associated with the emotion of fear. By strengthening the Kidneys, we replenish vitality and discover the ways that our bodies and souls feel nourished. Small intentional acts can help us stay grounded and honor the darkness when it feels all-encompassing.

I welcome you to slow down, get warm and cozy, honor simplicity, and find magic in the ordinary this winter. Winter is the season of “Yin”- the ultimate downtime and replenishment of energy and resources. Nature invites us to go dormant and be still this season, allowing this replenishment and introspection to birth new ideas and beginnings in the Spring.

In Chinese medicine, this is the season of Metal, connected to the Lungs and Large Intestine, and associated with the emotion of grief. It’s natural to feel a sense of letting go or even sadness as the light fades and the world turns inward.

By caring for the Lungs this season — through breath, food, warmth, and rest — we can support both our immune and emotional health. Small, intentional acts of self-care can lift the spirits and help us move through seasonal transitions with greater ease and resilience. Keep reading for some gentle tips to help us stay healthy this season.