The Traditional Chinese Way to a Healthy & Happy Winter

“The Inner Classic of the Yellow Emperor” also states that winter is a time for lower metabolism and energy storage. It is best to go to bed early and rise with the Sun. As the kidneys represent the reservoir of willpower, we should let our minds enter a state of dormancy and refrain from focusing on the outside world. Avoiding the cold and keeping warm is recommended. As to which parts of the body especially need safeguarding from the cold, it is crucial to pay attention to the back and feet. According to TCM, one’s winter diet should focus on nourishing the yin and tonifying the yang to enhance the body’s resistance and immune system. Black-colored vegan foods are thought to be good for the kidneys and thus should grace our dining table in the cold season.