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 just organs that regulate body fluids. They are considered the body’s powerhouse, the root of vitality and the origin of both Yin and Yang energy. Nourishing and protecting the kidneys in winter is especially important for maintaining balance and long-term health.

During this season, it’s essential to support both Kidney Yang (the warming, activating energy) and Kidney Yin (the cooling, nourishing energy). 

Kidney Yang–Nourishing Foods

These foods warm the body and support the Yang energy:

• Chestnuts
• Walnuts
• Shrimp
• Lamb
• Venison
• Black soybeans
• Mussels
• Chinese yam

Kidney Yin–Nourishing Foods

These foods replenish body fluids and help sustain Yin, which moistens, and anchors the body’s balance:

• Goji berries
• Black sesame seeds
• Pork
• Courgette (zucchini)
• Black soybeans
• Oysters
• Mussels

Tip: Combining both Yin- and Yang-nourishing foods in your winter meals helps keep the kidneys strong and your body balanced through the colder months.

Stay Warm and Moist in Winter

Keeping your body warm and moist is essential for good health in the colder months.
Cold foods like fresh salads or refrigerated vegetables can reduce your internal warmth and may aggravate cold-sensitive conditions such as menstrual cramps or joint stiffness.

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.

Please remember that we all have different body constitutions, so it’s important to understand your own type when choosing foods.