welcome winter!

Winter has well & truly arrived!  Warm, cosy jackets, beanies & soft scarfs are all around! Winter  has an inward pull... inviting us to rest, reflect & to recharge!🧘‍♂️

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Winter is related to the Water Element. It is said if we are not living in harmony with the season (or if our Water Element is out of balance), we can experience issues with the related organs. In this case; Kidney, Bladder & Adrenal glands. 

If you are experiencing any of the below symptoms on a regular basis, it may be a sign that your Water Element is out of balance;

• Lower back pain
• Knee problems
• Frequent urination
• Hearing loss
• Lack of libido
• Fear & anxiety

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Getting in Harmony with Winter

Winter is a time to rest, reflect & reconnect.  At the beginning of Winter, I took myself away for a 24 hour  retreat to the hills (not camping this time, waaay too cold for me!🥶 ).
Time created to  be more still & quiet. To let go the constant "to do list", responsibilities, & to allow space for the racing thoughts to settle.  To do less, without the need to "be productive" or achieve something.  It was magic!  ❤
 
To get proper, rejuvenating rest,   we don't have to go away...    We can do simple things at home, or around our area, such as;

• Spending time walking in   nature  or just sitting in a park listening to the sounds around you. 🌳
• Listening to a guided meditation. If you don't have your own favourite one, try Kate James's 15 min Body Scan Meditation    on the    free App  'Insight Timer'.🧘‍♀️
• Drawing, painting or try some other kind of art/craft. You don't have to be artistic to get  the relaxation benefits from art.  🎨

When we give ourselves the chance to slow down, relax & be still... it allows our body & mind time to rest & recharge, as well as allowing our hearts true desires to be more easily heard.  🌟

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Miso Noodle Soup Recipe

When I think of Winter meals, I think of delicious, nutritious warm soups!  😋🥣
Here's a simple, healthy recipe which you can  make for lunch or dinner, & can be ready in about 15 mins!   👍

INGREDIENTS;

• 3 -4 spring    onions, sliced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 Tbs of white miso paste
• 4 cups of broth or stock (Vegetable or Chicken)
• 80 - 100g of shiitake mushrooms, sliced 
• 160 - 200g of baby    bok choy, (or cabbage), thinly sliced
• 200 g    tofu (silken or firm), cubed
• 100 g soba noodles
• 1 sheet of nori seaweed, cut    into approx 1 inch squares (optional)

METHOD;
1. Heat a little sesame oil in a pot & fry the white part of the sliced green onions, until soft. Add the ginger & garlic & cook for about 1 min.
2. Add miso paste & broth/stock & heat to a simmer.
3. Add the mushrooms. Cook for 5 mins. 
4. Add the bok choy (or cabbage) & tofu. Cook for approx 3 - 5 mins.
5. In the meantime, cook the soba noodles according to instructions & put these at the bottom of your serving bowls. (2 serves)
6. Serve soup straight over noodles & sprinkle green part of onion  (& nori squares if using) on top. 
   

For more delicious & nutritious, simple recipes, click on button below...

MORE RECIPES

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Winter Yoga Routine

In TCM the Bladder Channel, (which is related to Winter & the Water Element), runs along the back of the body. It is said that if the Bladder Qi (energy) is weak, or out of balance, we can experience back issues (such as; pain, stiffness & tightness), & visa-versa. 

In Winter people generally feel more stiff & tight in their bodies. So.... it's also a great time to get into a regular Yoga or Movement routine, even if it's just 10 - 15 mins a day!
I have created a short, gentle Yoga Routine to help get your Qi flowing.... & to strengthen  & stretch your back, to help it feel more strong & flexible.   💪😊

Please consult your physical therapist, if you have any back issues, before doing  any Yoga classes or routines. ​​
Clink on button below to access the Yoga Routine.

WINTER yOGA ROUTINE

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"Your soul - that inner quiet space, is yours to consult. 
It will always guide you in the right direction"
(Dr Wayne Dyer)