Looking After Your Kidneys This Winter

As I was revisiting some of my old notes on traditional Chinese medicine recently, I was reminded how much importance was placed on caring for the kidneys during winter.

We often think of our kidneys simply as organs that filter our blood, but in traditional Chinese medicine they are considered much more than that. Winter is associated with the Water Element, and the kidneys are seen as the storehouse of our deepest reserves of vitality. They are said to hold our Jing, or Essence — the energy associated with growth, development, reproduction and healthy ageing.

The kidneys are also sometimes referred to as the Gate of Vitality, helping to provide the warmth needed for many of the body’s essential functions. Looking after them has long been regarded as an important part of maintaining health and wellbeing throughout life.

One idea that has stayed with me over the years is the importance of keeping the kidneys warm during winter.

According to traditional Chinese medicine, when the kidney area becomes cold, the body’s warming energy is affected. For that reason, people were encouraged to protect their lower back from cold, particularly during the winter months.

Think about where your kidneys sit. They rest high in your lower back, tucked beneath the bottom ribs. It’s an area that can easily become chilled while gardening, walking in a cold wind, sitting on a cold seat, or simply because your clothing rides up and leaves your lower back exposed.

I can still remember my mum making sure I had a woollen singlet on before heading out on a cold winter’s day. At the time I thought it was simply one of those things mums worried about, but perhaps she knew more than I realised.

A thermal singlet, an extra layer around your lower back, or simply making sure your back stays covered can all help keep this area warm throughout winter.

Food also plays an important part in supporting the kidneys.

Traditional Chinese medicine generally encourages warm, nourishing meals during winter rather than large amounts of cold food and drinks. Staying well hydrated and eating wholesome, unprocessed foods can also help support overall health during the colder months.

I’ve also been watching some interesting videos by Dr Berg about nutrition for kidney health and have included links below if you’d like to explore the topic further.

I’ve recorded two short practices that you might enjoy as well.

Kidney Breathing is a simple exercise that brings your awareness to the kidney area while encouraging deeper breathing. Many people also find it helps release tension through the lower back.

▶ Kidney Breathing

I’ve also recorded the traditional Kidney Healing Sound.

In the Five Element tradition, each organ is associated with a particular healing sound, colour and movement. This practice has been used for centuries as one way of supporting the kidneys during winter.

▶ Kidney Healing Sound

If you’d like to learn more about nutrition for kidney health, you may also find these videos interesting.

For people with kidney problems

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RQM_4aaf8iY&t=214s

One-minute kidney health tips

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ty6GzNa9SSs

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5CuTSYsNhuM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Es5RdHnD4lY

I hope these ideas encourage you to take a little extra care of yourself this winter.

Sometimes the smallest habits can make the biggest difference. Keeping your lower back warm, choosing nourishing food, and spending a few minutes each day breathing into the kidney area are all simple practices that can become part of a healthier winter routine.

Warmly,

Elayne

Looking for a little extra support?

If stress, tension or the demands of everyday life have been leaving you feeling depleted, massage can help release muscular tension, settle a busy mind and give your body the opportunity to slow down and recharge.

Book a massage here.

Enjoyed this article?

If you’d like to receive future seasonal articles, practical ideas and guided recordings, you’re welcome to join my newsletter.

Sign up here.

Continue Reading the Winter Wellness Series

Looking After Your Kidneys This Winter