Winter / A Time For Renewal

Eastern Philosophy reminds us that we are an integral part of nature, not separate from it. When the energy of nature turns inwards to rest and replenish as it does in the winter months it is a time for renewal. Winter is a time to be kind to yourself. To work on recharging the adrenals, which act as an inner battery for the body.

If you feel drained or depressed in winter it may be a sign of imbalance caused by not being able to adapt to the flow of the season. For some people it may be due to the shorter days and lack of sunshine causing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) In this case a light box often helps.

By far the  most common cause of low energy is the stress that comes with living in our modern world. Coping with everyday stress takes away a lot of our vital energy. When energy is drained it is hard for the adrenals to recharge. This can get magnified in winter. It will be easier to cope the rest of the year if precautions are taken to restore in this season. The fact that we should slow down and replenish ourselves this time of year is easier said then done. Shifting a few lifestyle habits can go a long way to combat fatigue and help you to restore. Try  going to bed a little earlier then your usual even if it is only by 15 to 30 minutes. This time adds up and gives your body an extra boost of vitality. An exercise program is extremely effective at helping you to manage chronic stress and promote energy flow within your body at any time of the year. Be careful not to over do it in winter as it is better to exercise for 30 minutes a day and leave the more strenuous workouts for the warmer seasons and longer days.

Eastern Medicine advises eating warming food in the winter to increase energy. Soups and stews made out of root vegetables are comforting, warming and grounding. There are many healing foods you can eat to give your energy level a boost. Poor diet is a big contributor to low energy levels, as many people tend to eat foods that provide a rapid energy boost that burns out quickly rather than foods that have a sustainable energy content to support you throughout the day. Especially this time of year you should consider starting the day with a high-quality protein breakfast, which will stay with you longer and provide the energy needed to keep you warm and healthy. This way you are supporting your energy level needed for season. 

Big winter energizers are nuts and seeds, daikon radish, legumes and different sources of seaweed. Drinking green tea and adding chia, flax and hemp seeds to your food, supply protein, fiber and healthy omega oils help support healthy digestion. Antioxidant rich berries like cranberries, blueberries, and cherries along with the use of lemon added to water, tea and food, help remove toxins from your system, which are often a root cause of low energy. Lastly, make sure you drink plenty of water each day to flush your system and stay hydrated. Many people drink less water in the winter because of the cooler climate. Pure water is essential in every season.  Overall, if you take extra time to care for yourself now, you will be rewarded with renewed energy in the spring as nature begins anew and starts to expand.