In our modern world, it can be easy to feel out of touch with the rhythms of the natural world. When we become sensitive once again to the seasons, their shifts and how they affect our mind + body + spirit, we can feel more attuned to our own rhythms and find more ease and flow. As we transition into winter in the Northern Hemisphere, we look to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to aid us in cultivating balance through every season.
Winter represents the Yin part of the year, as the longer nights and colder weather is meant to slow us down and pull us inward. TCM recommends shifts in activities as well as the food we eat with each season to allow the body to stay in tune. For example, Summer is Yang and all about movement - Winter is Yin and is for rest and slowing down our pace of life.
Journaling is a wonderful practice for the colder season to help release the spiraling thoughts of the brain and allow us to be fed spiritually. The longer nights are a fruitful time for introspection and reflection on the year to find where you grew, where growth is still needed and prepare you to put action forward for the coming months.
In TCM, the Kidneys are associated with Winter and as the Kidneys store Jing, our life essence, Jing is focused on during this time as well. The Kidneys find support through rest and tonic herbs that support their processes. In TCM, Jing is traditionally associated with vitality — so nourishing this essence through rest and tonic herbs is a traditional way of supporting energetic vigor and radiant vitality through the coldest days of the year.
Allowing our bodies to connect to the pulls and pushes of the natural world keeps us balanced and supported. We can also find seasonal support through the many herbal offerings our lovely planet provides. When the weather gets cool we reach for this Kidney tonic spiked with tonic herbs Eucommia, bark from a Chinese tree traditionally valued in TCM, and Mucuna Pruriens, traditionally used to support Jing and a bright mood, to assist our systems finding harmony with the season. This potion is the perfect drink to warm you from head to toe as you allow your body to rest.
Ingredients1 cup Activated Brazil Nut Milk ½ tsp. Eucommia ½ tsp. Mucuna Pruriens 1 tbsp. Tocos |
MethodWarm the Activated Brazil Nut Milk Add into a blender with herbs + honey Blend until creamy and In Joy! |
FAQ
What is Jing in Traditional Chinese Medicine?
In TCM, Jing is traditionally described as the body's stored “life essence,” associated with vitality and traditionally nourished through rest, warmth, and tonic herbs — especially during the winter season.
When is a good time to enjoy the Kidney Jing Potion?
It's a warming evening or slow-morning drink for the colder months — a moment to pause, rest, and settle into winter's quieter rhythm.
