Water is the dominant element during the season of Winter. In Nature, it is a time for introspection, rest and even a time when it’s ok to gain a little weight – that is after all what animals do.! However, we humans want to carry on at our usual pace.

Tip 1
Nature supports a slower steadier pace during this period so it’s a good moment to  take time to rest and plan for the year ahead.

Water flows and is essential to life. Our bodies contain approximately 70% at birth. Our bodies mirror the world we live in. We can see small streams and great oceans within us in our blood circulation, our lymphatic system, our saliva, our tears etc. When our body “water” is out of balance we lose our fluidity on all levels, we dry out. 

Tip 2
Drink more water – but no more than 500 ml per hour so that you don’t stress the kidneys,and  avoid eating excess refined carbohydrates or drinking alcohol or coffee

Water is associated with  the kidneys and the bladder in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Apart from physical symptoms indicating issues in these areas, on an emotional level an imbalance in the water element can translate into hypersensitivity, suspicious feelings or even fear (especially of change). 

Tip 3
Foods to help correct an imbalance are those that are naturally salty such as seaweed, millet, barley, miso – and/and bitter such as  rye, quinoa, local and seasonal vegetables.

If you decide to do a longer “detox” to relieve your bloating, tiredness, nausea etc, please respect the way Nature supports you at this time. Eat simple cooked dishes from those suggested and make sure you take plenty of rest and quiet time during your detox. If you start to feel anxious or have other symptoms it could be that your body is detoxing more quickly than it is eliminating.

However you decide to “detox”, remember to observe moderation and calm.