As the Midwest starts to settle into its colder months, it’s not unusual to feel a little heavier whether that is emotionally, physically or both. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) affects a lot of people around this time of year, and while Western medicine often approaches it from a psychological or biochemical standpoint, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers a broader, energetic perspective that connects our emotional state with the changing environment just like I have mentioned many times before.
In TCM, winter belongs to the water element, which governs the Kidneys, our roots of vitality and willpower. When Kidney Qi (energy) becomes depleted, we might feel tired, unmotivated, or even fearful about the months ahead. These feelings can easily mirror what we recognize as symptoms of seasonal depression. The key, according to TCM, is to nurture and preserve our energy rather than push through exhaustion.
TCM Strategies That Make a Difference
Simple lifestyle shifts can make a big difference. Think warm, nourishing foods like soups and bone broth to strengthen Kidney energy. Go to bed earlier, stay cozy and honor rest instead of fighting it. Gentle movement helps keep Qi circulating without depleting it. Herbal formulas can also play a role in prevention and support. Formulas that tonify the Kidneys and calm the spirit such as those containing herbs like He Shou Wu, Dang Gui, or Bai Shao can be tailored to everyone’s constitution. Acupuncture has also been found to alleviate symptoms for some. As we’re learning in school, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach; even two people with similar symptoms might need different herbal combinations.
Winter invites us to slow down and look inward. TCM teaches that this season isn’t about pushing productivity, but about conserving energy so we can reemerge in spring renewed and balanced. By listening to the body and aligning with the rhythm of the season, we can transform those winter blues into an opportunity for deep restoration and self-connection.
