Winter is a special time for most of us. As children we were captivated by all the magic of snow and gingerbread with lights and music. We saw images of hot chocolate by fireplaces and mittens with toques and we embraced that luscious sensation of being cozy and still.
As adults however, it seems there just isn’t enough time for the magic and certainly not enough for the coziness and stillness. We push to get as much done as we do in the summer even though we have less light and less warmth. This can really stress our bodies and minds.
At this time of year I find my clients with very tender lower backs, tight hamstrings and muscle spasms. The whole back body seems tight and tired and I am more likely to find heavy circles under their eyes.
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) winter is the time of the kidneys and bladder meridians, which run down the back of the body. It is a time to invest in nourishing ourselves in a warm and slow way. The most appropriate foods are warm soups and stews, the best activities are slower and more internally based, like journaling, yoga and creating art or working on your home. Winter is a time to be gentle with ourselves so we can be ready and fully charged for the emergence of spring and summer.
Modern life does not necessarily allow us to make radical changes that would find us journaling with a cup of hot chocolate by the fire all day. So it is up to each of us to find ways to incorporate a bit more being in our lives rather than just focusing on doing. Some helpful tips on nourishing the kidneys can be found here.
If you have found yourself being tired and tight this season, come by for a tune-up. Shiatsu and Depp Tissue massage can do wonders to nourish the body and help you to find some stillness in your day.
Still Waters Massage and Wellness 