We are now in the season of rest and conserving energy. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), winter is the season of Yin, a time to go inward, store energy, and nourish the body deeply. 

Winter is associated with the following:

• Element – Water
• Yin organ – Kidneys
• Yang organ – Bladder
• Emotion – Fear
• Taste – Salty
• Color – Black

The Kidney’s Role in Winter

In TCM philosophy, the kidneys are more than organs that regulate fluids — they are considered the foundation of vitality, the source of both Yin and Yang energy, and the body’s deep powerhouse.

During winter, nourishing and protecting the kidneys helps maintain inner warmth, energy balance, and long-term wellness.
Both aspects of kidney energy are important:

• Kidney Yang provides warmth, activation, and vitality.
• Kidney Yin replenishes, cools, and moistens the body.

Kidney Yang–Nourishing Foods

These foods warm the body and support the Yang energy:

• Chestnuts
• Walnuts
• Shrimp
• Lamb
• Venison
• Chinese yam
• Garlic chives
• Cinnamon
• Cloves
• Dried ginger
• Du zhong (Eucommia bark)

Kidney Yin–Nourishing Foods

These foods replenish body fluids and sustain Yin, keeping your system calm and hydrated:

• Goji berries
• Black sesame seeds
• White fungus
• Zucchini (courgette)
• Black soybeans
• Raspberries
• Chicken egg
• Quail egg
• Pork
• Duck meat
• Oyster
• Mussel
• Scallop
• Kelp

Yakuzen Tip: Balance Yin & Yang in Winter Meals

In Yakuzen, harmony is key. Combining warming (Yang-supporting) foods such as lamb or chestnuts with moistening (Yin-nourishing) foods like black sesame or duck creates a balanced, restorative meal that supports the kidneys through the cold season.

Nourishment Through Hot Pots (Nabe)

In Japan, a favorite winter home cooking dish is hot pot (nabe). These one-pot meals are simple, versatile, and deeply nourishing—you can add your favorite combination of meats, fish, and vegetables.

At the end of the meal, rice or noodles are often added as the shime (finishing touch), soaking up the flavorful, nutrient-rich broth. It’s a comforting, warming way to stay healthy and supported through winter.

Stay Warm and Moist in Winter

Keeping your body warm and hydrated is essential in winter.
Avoid excessive raw or chilled foods, as they can weaken your inner warmth and aggravate cold-sensitive conditions such as menstrual cramps or joint stiffness.
Choose gently cooked meals, soups, and teas that warm from within.

Listen to Your Body

Each person has a unique body constitution.
Observe how your body responds to different foods and adjust your diet accordingly.
Winter wellness is not about restriction — it’s about mindful nourishment and harmony with the season.

Gentle Reminder

This article is based on Traditional Chinese Medicine and Yakuzen principles. It is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Please adjust according to your body constitution or consult a qualified practitioner if needed.