The trees growing bare and the air turning crisp indicate nature’s quiet descent inward. The pace slows, the light softens, and if we listen closely, our bodies and minds start asking for the same thing — quality, restorative rest.
Outside our clinic in the Barkley Village Green, I’ve found myself admiring the twinkling lights wrapped around the trees. Even in the darker seasons, we find ways to bring brightness in.
In Five Element Acupuncture, winter corresponds to the Water Element, which governs the kidneys and bladder and relates to the emotion of fear. Water holds the deepest part of who we are — our reserves, willpower, and ability to trust life’s unfolding, even when things feel uncertain.
Understanding Your Body’s Natural Rhythms in the Water Season
Just as nature retreats underground, we too are invited to slow down, conserve energy, and nurture our inner reserves. But for many people, especially in the Pacific Northwest where daylight is scarce, this time can also feel heavy or isolating.
When Water energy is balanced, we feel capable, calm, and steady. When it’s depleted, fear can flood the system. We might feel paralyzed, burned out, or disconnected from our own inner wisdom.
Simple Ways to Create Balance and Qi (Energy)
- Light beeswax candles or use soft, warm lighting after natural light fades.
Why It Works: Warm, gentle light helps regulate your circadian rhythm, ease the nervous system, and create a sense of comfort during the darkest months. - Wear a scarf to keep the back of your neck protected.
Why It Works: In East Asian medicine, the back of the neck is the “Wind Gate,” where external cold and wind can enter the body—Keeping it covered helps prevent seasonal aches, chills, and lowered immunity. - Keep your lower back warm — no crop tops in winter!
Why It Works: The kidneys can be thought of as our batteries that store your deepest energy reserves. Protecting this area helps conserve warmth, vitality, and overall stamina through the season. - Embrace warm, cozy socks or try a magnesium Epsom salt foot soak before bed.
Why It Works: The only acupuncture channel point on the bottom of the feet corresponds to the Kidney, and warming that spot promotes relaxation, better sleep, and stronger foundational Qi. - Sip tea or warm beverages throughout the day to nourish from within.
Why It Works: Drinking warm liquids supports digestion and circulation. Bonus points if you have a tiny pinch of Celtic sea salt, or an electrolyte packet such as LMNT daily for optimal hydration to support the kidneys.
How Acupuncture Can Support You
Acupuncture offers gentle yet powerful support during the winter months. Treatments can help:
- Ease seasonal mood changes by regulating the nervous system and supporting the Water–Fire connection between the kidneys and the heart.
- Improve sleep and energy, especially when fatigue sets in from short daylight hours.
- Reduce anxiety and restlessness by grounding the mind and restoring calm within the body.
Upcoming Class: The Water Element
If you’d like to explore the wisdom of the Water Element more deeply, join us for Class #2 in our “How Acupuncture Can Keep You Healthy as the Seasons Change” series.
DATE: Saturday, January 17, 2026 11:00 am – 12:30 pm PDT
In this class, we’ll explore the functions and imbalances of the kidney and bladder organs through the lens of Eastern Asian medicine, and learn ways to return to balance. Topics include food therapy, herbal support, and shared discussion of participants’ experiences.
We’ll open with gentle Qi Gong movement and breath work, followed by an hour-long lecture and a 30-minute community-style acupuncture treatment focused on the kidneys, bladder, adrenals, and stress relief.
The Wood Element includes the liver and gallbladder as well as the emotions of anger and frustration. Spring marks a time of renewal and growth, when we support the body’s natural urge to move forward while maintaining balance.
You will learn how to support the liver and the free flow of energy during this time of detoxification, which in turn can help with issues such as seasonal allergies.
In contrast to the winter solstice, the summer solstice is the most Yang time of year, filled with joy, warmth, and connection.
You’ll walk away knowing how to cultivate our inner fire or light while preventing burnout and heart-related imbalances.
Save your spot using this link.
Winter is an invitation to slow down and have the courage to be still. If you’ve been feeling fatigued, anxious, or simply in need of a pause, this is your reminder to honor that instinct.
Most insurance plans include a set number of acupuncture visits per calendar year, so now is the perfect time to use those benefits before they reset. Contact our office or schedule online through your patient portal to get on the calendar before the year is out!
