GREETINGS

The theme of Winter is the protection of kidneys. The kidneys are seen as most important in Chinese Medicine ( in contrast to Western Medicine ). In Chinese Medicine the function of the kidneys include the storage of essence, and the regulation of birth, growth , reproduction and development. "The Essence" is a precious substance which is inherited from parents and contains genetic material of each person. The kidneys store this essence. Weakness in the kidney energy ( "Qi" ) can cause infertility, impotence and menstrual disorders. The kidney Qi can be damaged by cold. As the kidneys govern the bones it is understandable why people say that they feel the cold in their bones. People with arthritis and back problems often complain that they ache more in the winter than any other season. Do you find it difficult to keep warm in winter? For instance, are you the person who hogs the fireplace, or can be found crouched in front of the heater? It may be that your problem is with your kidneys.

Moxibustion is the answer. This is a therapy which uses a stick of burning mugwort ( a herb ) applied over acupuncture points or on the end of acupuncture needles inserted at specific points. The purpose of this treatment is to warm the kidneys and thereby strengthen kidney Qi.
The kidneys govern the ears and hair. They impact on the lungs. If kidney Qi is weak the lung energy may not function as it should and breathlessness, coughing or asthma may result. There are things that you can do to protect your lungs and kidneys. If you have been out in the cold and you feel you may have caught something try this simple recipe to disperse the cold.

• 3-5 slices of fresh ginger

• 1-2 tblspoons of raw sugar

• 3-5 bulbs of spring onion

• Cook with 1 ½ cup of water for 10-15 minutes.

Weak kidneys contribute to aging. Nourishing the kidneys will slow down the aging process. Emotionally the kidneys govern will power. If the kidneys are strong, a person can work hard and for long periods of time. If the kidneys are weak the patient tends to be depressed and lack will power and motivation.

So this year – let Winter not be the season of your discontent... (apologies W. Shakespeare!)