TIPS FROM A NATUROPATH:
EMBRACING WINTER: ANCIENT TRADITIONS FOR MODERN WELLNESS
by Daniela Sivevski
July 4, 2024
Nature in winter takes a breath, a pause to regenerate and rebuild, when the earth is resting it’s a calling for us to do the same… we would do well to embrace this type of hibernation, to give ourselves permission to slow down, reflect, rest and release what may not truly be working for us and ignite a new fire for the next season.
"Rest is not idle, is not wasteful.
Sometimes rest is the most productive thing you can do for body and soul."
ERICA LAYNE
In this season of stillness, we find an opportunity for renewal, a chance to nourish our mind and body through ancient rituals that resonate with modern wellness practices.
Honouring the Kidneys
In traditional Chinese medicine, winter is associated with the kidneys, the organs that store our vital life force, or jing. Supporting the kidneys during this time is important for maintaining balance and vitality. They serve as nature’s filtration system and doorways to our Spirit. The emotion linked to our kidneys is fear, which can manifest as anxiety when out of balance. Individuals who lack personal motivation, unable to make decisions, confused may have a kidney imbalance.
The Ritual of Herbal Tonics:
Ceremonial tea preparations, herbal tonics are age-old practices which have been bringing increased wellness and spiritual ease for thousands of years. Tea preparation is a cross-cultural ancient ritual which taps into our ancestral and innate medicinal wisdom, as tonic teas are concentrated herbal infusions activated simply with hot water or milk and full of potent nutrients, mineral and vitamin nourishment.
Building Immunity:
During the winter months, it's essential to build our immune systems against colds and flus. Adding a herbal tonic, saunas and drinking plenty of water into our daily rituals can help boost our body's defenses and keep illness at bay. Create a herbal tonic using our immunity tonic recipe.
Luckily in Queensland we get sunny winter days making the most of these , fresh air and warming sun, beach walks connecting to the earth and building strong immunity.
Gratitude and Connection:
Finally, as we embark on our winter wellness journey, let us not forget the importance of gratitude and connection. Taking the time to appreciate the food that sustains us, as well as the company of friends and family, reminds us of the abundance that surrounds us even in the quietest of moments. For me winter is a time of reflection and planning, resting, sitting by the fire and hot cacao.
As we navigate the depths of winter, let us embrace the ancient traditions that have guided humanity through countless seasons before us. By nurturing our mind and body with restorative rituals and honoring the rhythms of nature.
"Wisdom comes with winters"
Oscar Wilde
HERBAL TONICS FOR WELLNESS
KIDNEY BALANCING
Perform the act of Kidney balancing with restorative teas. Make them yourself using the ingredients below:
KIDNEY CLEANSER
Dandelion Leaf + Root
Reduces blood sugars and acts as a diuretic.
ANTIOXIDANT PROTECTION
Matcha
Boosts metabolism and is packed with antioxidants, a great superfood!
STRENGTH
Horsetail + Goji Berries
Removes uric acid and builds kidney strength and balances yin and yang.
INFLAMMATION REDUCTION
Nettle
Reduces inflammation in the kidneys and purifies the blood.
BUILDING
IMMUNI-TEA
ELDERBERRY
Helps reduce the duration of a cold or flu.
ECHINACEA
Stimulates the immune system.
LICORICE
Enhances the immune system (and tasty!).
GINGER
Warming and stimulates circulation.
REISHI MUSHROOM
known as the "mushroom of immortality" supports a healthy immune response.
