The Mystery of Winter

Feb 9

As winter settles in, we are drawn into the energy of the Water Element which is governed by the Kidney and Bladder meridians in Chinese Five Element Theory. This element represents stillness, adaptability, and the potential for growth. Winter asks us to conserve energy, reflect, and reconnect with our inner essence, nurturing health on all levels: body, mind, emotions, and soul.

The Water Element embodies qualities of mystery and resilience. The Kidney and Bladder meridians play key roles, with the Kidneys acting as the storehouse of our "essential energy" or Jing. This energy supports growth, longevity, and vitality, while the Bladder aids in letting to of that which no longer serves us. Spiritually, Water encourages us to face our fears, pause for stillness and embrace the unknown.

When the Water Element is imbalanced, symptoms may include chronic lower back pain, frequent urination, fatigue, or feelings of fear and overwhelm. These signs remind us to pause and realign with the rhythm of rest and renewal. When balanced, Water fosters courage, adaptability, and trust in life's unfolding.

The duality of yin and yang tension is ever-present, especially during turbulent times in our society. In the current political climate, fear can often feel pervasive as uncertainty looms. Yet, within the Water Element lies the wisdom to remind us that stillness precedes growth and renewal. By leaning into reflection and embracing the unknown, we create space for hope to take root. Trusting in the cycles of life, we can look to the future with the courage to adapt and the resilience to thrive.

From Michele Marie Gervais’s perspective in Spiritual Portraits of the Energy Release Points, the Bladder 52 (Zhishi or "Ambition Room") and Bladder 23 (Shenshu or "Kidney Shu") invite us to connect deeply with our soul’s purpose. BL 52, located near the lower back at waistline level, is thought to hold the energy of our deepest aspirations and spiritual courage, while BL 23 offers a wellspring of vitality and ancestral wisdom. Together, these points act as a gateway to understanding the core of who we are and what we are here to achieve. Reflecting on these energies can help dispel fear and uncertainty, encouraging us to embrace the possibilities of renewal and alignment with our higher purpose. This is a great location to use a set of soft stress balls in a sock, to gently activate these points.

To harmonize with Water this winter, consider these practices:

Acupressure Points: Use a set of soft stress balls in a sock to activate Bladder 52 and Bladder 23 acupoints at the waistline level of your lower back to nourish energy and soothe fear.
Breathwork & Meditation: Slow diaphragmatic breathing calms the mind. Moments of silence create space for inner wisdom.
Restorative Yoga: Poses like Child’s Pose or Seated Forward Bend help release low back tension and encourage reflection. This activates the Bladder meridian points on your back.
Warm Nourishment: Foods like bone broth, dark leafy greens, beans, legumes, seeds, nuts and warming spices such as ginger and cinnamon strengthen Kidney energy.
Home Sanctuary: Decorate with blue or black accents, calming water features, or reflective mirrors to invoke stillness. Spend time in silent reflection without the distracting media.
Emotional Practices: Journaling about fears or visualizing aspects of water for your life’s flow fosters trust in your inner journey.

Reflect on this: What seeds of potential lie dormant within me, waiting for the right time to grow? Let this question guide your winter reflections, as you honor rest and renewal in preparation for spring's awakening.