What Is Yin?

The terms Yin and Yang describe the way phenomena naturally group in pairs of opposites-hot and cold; light and dark; night and day; autumn and winter versus spring and summer; male and female; inside and outside, sun and moon; up and down; movement and stillness. Everything has components of Yin and Yang within itself.

Being a Yin time of year, winter represents stillness and calmness. Life tends to move more slowly during winter, and so it is an ideal time to look inward and reflect. Winter is also a good time to seek replenishment of body, mind and spirit. For example, you might choose to be more conscious of your surroundings and experience life with more introspection. Meditate and allow yourself to be present in the moment. Find a cozy spot to relax, sleep, and dream. As there is more darkness in the winter, you might use this time for your body to get more rest. It will thank you come next spring and summer.

The Five Elements

Oriental Medicine recognizes five elements that represent the interaction of all phenomena in the universe. The five elements are: wood, fire, earth, metal and water. Each element corresponds to specific internal organs, scents, tastes, colors and emotions within the body.

The element that relates to winter is water. The organs related to the water element are the kidneys and bladder. Their function resides in water, mineral, and acid-base balances in the body. They filter the blood to make urine, and eliminate unneeded substances.

The Kidneys

In Oriental Medicine, kidneys are the roots of our life force energy or Qi. The kidneys create the fire and warmth to sustain bodily functions and provide energy to other organs. Kidney energy is housed in the low back. If you have low back pain, you may find that rest, warm foods and activities that support inner balance will supplement your water energy and diminish these problems.

To maintain the fire of the kidney, a winter diet should ideally be warming and substantial with more whole grains, less fruit, and lots of steamed or baked vegetables, especially root vegetables. Soup is a great addition to the diet during the winter as it is easy on the digestive system and keeps our inner fire warm. Tai Qi and Qi Gong are very good for inner balance, as they build strength, improve immune function and cultivate Qi through breathing, meditation and slow movements.

The stillness and slower pace of winter is a special time to experience inner changes. You can bring the good of winter's harmony into your life!