Winter should be a time of slowing down and going inward. All life forms slow down this time of year - plants sink their energy into their roots and animals tend to either sleep and eat or hibernate. In Chinese medicine, this time of year corresponds to the water element. This period of quiet represents life in its most primal state - beneath a still surface there is activity, before seeds germinate, they require a cold spell of hibernation.
The water of winter follows autumn’s metal element which signifies contraction and a need to shed or cleanse toxins, habits or attitudes that no longer contribute to our wellness. To be able to “contract” or hunker down into a reflective winter, it is necessary to lighten the load physically, mentally, and emotionally.
We humans tend to be the only life forms that don’t slow down this time of year. Holiday stress combined with climate chage quite commonly leads to imbalance. If we don’t take the time to slow down or do a cleanse, our various organ systems can become overburdened. The resulting imbalance not only leaves us feeling stressed and anxious, it challenges our immunity and sets us up for colds and the flu.
The following are some naturopathic recommendations to help you maintain balance and strengthen immunity during the winter months:
- Cut out the sugar and refined carbohydrates. Sugar has been shown to suppress the immune system by lowering white blood cell counts and binding to the same receptors as vitamin C.
- Adequate hydration - 1/2 body weight in ounces of filtered water (including non-caffeinated herbal teas) to flush the system ans support optimal kidney function.
- Exercise - Try for 30 min 3-5x/week to improve circulation, boost energy and immunity, and encourage toxin elimination through sweating.
- Optimal rest - Be sure to get 8 hours of sleep and try getting to bed by 10 pm each night. This establishes an optimal circadian rhythm, balances the nervous system, strengthens the adrenals (our stress-coping glands) and fortifies immunity.
Hydrotherapy treatments for home:
- Contrast shower - Take a shower warm enought to cause skin flushing and end with a cold spray to mid-back (kidney region) and upper chest (heart, lungs, thymus gland). This technique improves blood return to our body’s vital organs.
- Warming socks - This treatment boosts immunity and greatly reduces congestion of the ears, eyes, sinuses, throat and lungs. First warm your feet if they are cold. Take a pair of cotton socks and wet them with cold water adn wring out thoroughly. (You may also place in the freezer for 3-5 min). Place the cold we socks on your feet and cover with thick wool socks. Go to bed with warm clothing and covers. You will sleep very deeply and wake feeling clear-headed and with dry socks.
Winter Balancing Worshop
In collaboration with Mint Fitness, Dr. Rodriguez will be providing tips for maintaining optimal wellness during winter. The workshop will be held Sat. Dec. 9th from 2-4:30 at Mint fitness: 1724 Claifornia St., NW. The cost of the event is $55 for members and $70 for non-members. The workshop also includes: a 45 minute yoga session, winter hebal tea blend with take home sachets, therapeutic informational handouts from the perspectives of naturopathic medicine, herbalism, and nutrition, a winter elixir (seasonal juice from Mint’s juice bar), and 25% off seasonal spa services. For more information, contact Mint: www.mintfitness.com, 202.328.6468
