Give Your Batteries a Boost This Winter

The winter solstice is quickly approaching.  As we move into the most yin season of the year it is important to boost the energy of our kidneys and their associated meridians.  The kidneys are very susceptible to the excesses of our culture.  Overdoing, burning the candle at both ends, consuming too many stimulants (i.e., coffee) and constantly being on the go burn our kidney energy.

Think of our kidneys as the battery pack for our bodies.  When those batteries become taxed and need to be recharged it is extremely important that we do so.  If we don’t……….well, you’ve seen what happens to batteries that don’t get recharged- they stop working.  My yoga class this Friday, and throughout the winter, will include poses to give the kidneys the boost that they need.  Wondering what you can do to help your kidney energy off the mat?  Here are a couple of suggestions:

1. Rest!!!!! In a culture where productiveness is often measured by how little sleep we get, rest is often considered a waste of time.  Not so!  Allowing time for adequate rest is essential for our health and well-being.

2. Take a warm sea salt or Epsom salt bath.  Salt (in moderation) strengthens the kidneys.  Combine rest (see #1) with a kidney boosting salt bath and your meridians and adrenal glands will thank you!

3. Eat warm and cooked foods while avoiding foods that are raw and cold.  Think soup instead of salad.

Have a happy and healthy winter and I’ll see you on the mat this Friday from 2-3pm at Towson Yoga Works!