Keeping Warm After the Winter Solstice

The Winter Solstice is the shortest day and marks the beginning of the 22nd solar term. At this time of year it is particularly important to keep yourself warm.

In Chinese the winter solstice is called Dong Zhi (冬至). It marks the shortest day of the year and the beginning of the 22nd of the 24 solar terms. The winter solstice was actually the first of these special days to be noted as astronomers began observing the movements of the sun 2500 years ago during the Spring and Autumn period of Chinese history.

Although the winter solstice is the day with the fewest hours of daylight, it by no means marks the peak of winter. Following the solstice, the weather usually turns even colder before spring finally arrives in February.

This is therefore the period when it is most important to stay warm in order to avoid becoming ill. It is time to start protecting yourself against colds and flu as well as more serious, chronic disease.

Keeping warm is especially important for women, the elderly and those suffering from yang deficiency or internal cold. Look out for symptoms such as fear of cold, cold hands and feet, chilblains, clear discharge from the nose and eyes, and having to urinate frequently during the night.

It is important to regulate your work-life balance at this time of year in order to look after your energy reserves and avoid getting burnt out. Regular exercise is also important to keep your body warm and benefit your heart and lungs.

Reduce your chances of picking up infections by paying particular attention to hygiene. Wash your hands regularly and avoid sharing towels with anybody in your family who is ill. Keep your nose, throat and lungs moist by using a humidifier in your home or placing bowls of water next to radiators, and remember to drink lots of warm fluids.

I have posted about the benefits recognizing properties of food earlier. Eat warming (yang-nature) foods such as soup or stews. A simple vegetable soup including carrots and onions is ideal. Carrots are rich in the nutrient beta-carotene. This has antioxidant effects as well as boosting immunity and improving eye, skin and hair health. Onions contain a wealth of different vitamins and minerals and can help to relieve respiratory infections by reducing inflammation and mucus.

Other warming foods to include in your diet at this time of year are lamb, shellfish, and spices like ginger, cinnamon, fennel seeds and cloves.

Source:

RadixTCM. https://www.radixtcm.com/keeping-warm-after-the-winter-solstice/