Heavy Snow: 3 Essential Winter Wellness Tips

Did you know that December 6th is "Dà Xuě" (Heavy Snow), one of the 24 solar terms in the traditional Chinese calendar? As we transition into the depths of winter, our metabolism slows down, and the cold weather can take a toll on our bodies.

This makes it the perfect time to prioritize self-care.
There's a popular Chinese saying: "If you don't take care of yourself during Heavy Snow, illnesses will follow you into the next year." This season is all about conserving and nourishing energy—what Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) refers to as "nurturing and storing."

Today, let's dive into three simple yet effective winter wellness tips to help you stay warm, healthy, and energized all season long.

Tip 1: Protect Your Yang Energy

Go to Bed Early, Wake Up Later, and Stay Warm
Sleep is a cornerstone of winter health. Try going to bed earlier and waking up later—ideally after sunrise. Early sleep helps preserve your body's yang energy (the body's warming and active energy), which is vital for maintaining warmth, while waking up a bit later protects your yin energy (the body's cooling and restful energy), allowing your body to adapt to the season's slower pace.

Staying warm is just as important! Pay special attention to keeping your head, neck, back, and feet cozy. These areas lose heat the fastest. Layer up with hats, scarves, and warm socks to ward off the cold and prevent winter illnesses.

Tip 2: Nourish Your Body with Warming Foods

Eat Hearty Meals to Combat the Chill
Winter calls for warming, nutrient-dense meals. In Chinese culture, lamb is a classic choice during Heavy Snow for its warming properties. For example, a lamb and radish stew is an excellent option: lamb boosts circulation and keeps you warm, while radish aids digestion and supports lung health.

 

But if lamb isn't your preference or is hard to find, here are some alternative options:

• Chicken Stew with Root Vegetables: Chicken is warming and easy to cook. Pair it with carrots, potatoes, or turnips for a simple, hearty dish.
• Beef Stew with Sweet Potatoes: The richness of beef combined with the sweetness of yams or sweet potatoes creates a satisfying, nutrient-packed meal.
• Turkey and Wild Rice Soup: Use leftover turkey from holiday meals to make a nourishing soup with wild rice, celery, and onions.

Additionally, consider adding "black foods" to your diet, as TCM believes they help nourish the kidneys and combat cold. Examples include black beans, black sesame seeds, and wild black rice—all readily available at most grocery stores.
 
Finally, while it's tempting to drink less water in colder weather, staying hydrated is essential. Aim for 50–70 ounces (1.5–2 liters) of water per day, and choose warm beverages like ginger tea, lemon water with honey, or even a cozy cup of spiced tea (chai).

Tip 3: Conserve Your Energy

Engage in Gentle Exercises and Avoid Excessive Sweating
Winter isn't the season for high-intensity workouts that leave you drenched in sweat. Instead, focus on low-impact activities like yoga, Pilates, or even a gentle stretching session at home. These exercises keep your body active without draining your energy reserves.

 

Before bed, try massaging the Yongquan point, located on the sole of your foot (in the front part of the arch). Stimulating this acupressure point is believed to boost kidney health, strengthen your body's defenses against the cold, and improve sleep quality. It's a simple yet effective way to feel more refreshed and resilient during winter.

Winter Wellness Made Simple 

The Heavy Snow season isn't just a reminder of dropping temperatures; it's also a great time to focus on your health. By adjusting your sleep habits, eating more warming foods, and staying active in a balanced way, you can embrace winter with energy and vitality.

So grab that warm blanket, brew yourself a hot cup of tea, and let the season's slower pace inspire a little extra self-care. Your body will thank you for it!