A typical Winter scene in China, the photo taken by acupuncturist Ben Liu
Here in Napier, we actually had snow for the first time ever and it was in the last weeks of Autumn!
And now that I am writing the Winter newsletter, the weather is actually quite mild. Unpredictable weather is the norm as are unpredictable signs and symptoms affecting our health.
Chinese medicine recommends that you guard yourself against the changes in the seasons, especially if encountered by extremes. For example, if there is a long period of warm sunny weather, the body gets used to that and the body will then become more loose, and the pores will open up. Then when there is a sudden cold snap, according to Chinese medicine, the cold can penetrate in through the acupuncture points and accumulate in the meridians which then affect the organs.
Which organs are affected by cold weather?
In particular, the lungs and kidneys are vulnerable to the cold. There is a saying in Chinese medicine that states that both the lungs and kidneys despise the cold.
This is why it is easier to catch a cold and flu when there is a sudden cold snap. And this is why people like to crouch down in front of the fireplace and warm their lower back as they are trying to warm their kidneys.
Can moxibustion help cold kidneys in the winter time?
Acupuncturists often use moxibustion on the acupuncture shen shu to warm the kidneys during the winter time.
In nature, many animals like bears hibernate during the winter and birds start nests in preparation for the spring as opposed to laying their eggs in the middle of winter.
Are there any special foods or spices that one can have during the winter?
There are even foods that are regarded as natural winter foods such as the Winter Melon. The melon first gets a covering of hairs which develop into a waxy type surface allowing for long storage during the winter. It is commonly used in soups and stews.
Spices like cloves and cinnamon are also recommended because they warm the body and help disperse cold.
Stay warm and if possible, sleep in during the winter and you will have better health and more energy in the Spring.
