Winter is an appropriate time to become more Yin. Now you may be wondering… what does it mean to become more “Yin”? While you may be familiar with the famous yin-yang symbol, not everyone fully understands what yin-yang truly is. It is the basis for Traditional Chinese Medicine and describes the concept that everything in nature consists of two paradoxical phases or energies. It can simply be translated to “dark-light”. Yin being the night and Yang being the day, Yin is the cooling to the warming Yang. Embracing Yin energy this winter might be encouraging the body to rest and for the mind to contemplate and bring closure to the past. An appropriate amount of uninterrupted sleep is one way in which you can consolidate additional Yin energy.
Going to bed earlier and waking up later (7 am) is a great way to cultivate your energy. Nutmeg and chamomile are two herbs that could help you get to bed sooner and rest more easily. Nutmeg is a common kitchen spice that helps calm the mind, reduce nervous system activity, and promote sound sleep. Try adding 1/8 teaspoon to warm milk to sip before bed or mix equal parts nutmeg and ghee (clarified butter) for a peaceful facial mask. Chamomile works with the nervous system, the digestive system, and the endocrine system to relax the body and fight against insomnia. Try brewing a cup of warm chamomile tea to soothe an upset stomach and balance your emotions before bed.
Another insight that could assist in adequate sleep this winter is self massage. Massage works through the power of touch. Rubbing and stroking moves toxins out of the body and into the digestive system for elimination, improves blood flow, and relaxes the nerves making you feel calm and cared for. Choose a cold-pressed, chemical free, organic massage oil. Sesame seed oil suits most skin and body types. Pour the oil into your palms and rub your hands together to warm the oil, take a deep breath. Begin the massage at the top, working from your head to your toes. Massage in gentle circular strokes around your joints, chest and abdomen and move back and forth along the bones of your arms and legs. Take a few moments to let the oil soak into your pores while taking a few deep belly breaths. Ideally self massage should be between 10-15 minutes, but any amount of time will add wonderful refreshment to your life. Follow your massage with a hot shower or bath before climbing into bed. You should wash the oil off within 45 minutes to avoid feeling sluggish when you wake in the morning.
Lastly, proper movement is a great way to keep your yin and yang energies balanced throughout the winter season and promote uninterrupted sleep. Movement this winter season should be enough to increase circulation but shouldn’t cause excessive sweating. Practice Life force strengthening movement like Qi Gong, Tai Chi and Yin Yoga. Take a brisk walk on the treadmill or cover up and take your movement outside so you can soak up the sunlight. Sunlight relaxes muscles, produces vitamin D, soothes Seasonal Affective Disorder, and helps maintain healthy sleep rhythms.