Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine for Winter Health

Q: How can acupuncture help me stay healthy in winter?

Acupuncture helps strengthen immunity, improve circulation, and reduce stress, keeping your body balanced in colder months. It also supports Kidney energy in Chinese medicine, which is key for winter vitality.

Q: How often should I get acupuncture in the winter?

Many people do well with treatments every 2–4 weeks during winter. Regular sessions help maintain balance, support immunity, and prevent seasonal fatigue.

Q: Does acupuncture help with the winter blues?

Yes. Acupuncture calms the nervous system and encourages the release of serotonin and endorphins—natural mood lifters—helping you feel more relaxed, centered, and emotionally balanced.

Q: Are there foods I should eat more of in winter?

Favor warm, nourishing foods like soups and stews, root vegetables, beans, whole grains, and warming spices such as ginger, cinnamon, and garlic to support digestion and energy.

Q: Can Chinese herbs help too?

Yes. Customized herbal formulas can boost energy, support immunity, and nourish the Kidneys in winter. Always work with a licensed practitioner to find the right formula for you.

Q: What’s the most important winter wellness tip?

Prioritize rest and warmth. Go to bed earlier, keep your lower back and feet warm, and give yourself permission to slow down so your body can restore energy for the seasons ahead.

Sarah Shupe Hung L.Ac. FABORM
2 days ago
3 min read

Updated: 1 day ago

Winter has a way of making us want to slow down. The days are shorter, the air is colder, and many of us naturally feel like hibernating. In Chinese medicine, this isn’t a bad thing. Winter is seen as a time for rest, reflection, and to take care of yourself. It’s when we recharge our energy so we can step into spring feeling strong and renewed.

Why Winter Is All About the Kidneys

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), each season is tied to an organ system. Winter belongs to the Kidneys, which are thought of as the body’s energy reserves. They hold our vitality, influence our energy levels, and play a large role in longevity.When your Kidney energy is strong, you feel steady, resilient, and grounded.

When your Kidney energy is low, you might feel tired more easily or achiness in your lower back or knees. You can also feel extra sensitive to the cold, especially in the winter months. Your immune system may not be as strong as it should, and you get sick more often. It can also cause mental fog or trouble focusing.

How Acupuncture Can Help

Acupuncture is like a reset button for your body. In the winter. It can give your immune system a boost so you’re less likely to get sick, and if you do help you recover faster. It improves circulation so you stay warmer and less stiff. It can also ease stress and lift the winter blues. Often you will leave a session feeling more grounded, peaceful, and emotionally lighter, making it the perfect reset during the darker, colder months.

Winter Wellness Tips

Along with acupuncture, here are a few easy ways to take care of yourself this season:

Rest more: Don’t feel guilty about going to bed earlier, it’s what your body needs.
Eat warm, hearty foods: Soups, stews, roasted root veggies, and warming spices like ginger and cinnamon are perfect for this time of year.
Stay warm: Especially your lower back and feet. This protects your Kidney energy.
Move gently: Practices like yoga, Tai Chi, or even mindful stretching keep your energy flowing without draining you.
Reflect and recharge: Journaling, meditation, or quiet creative time can feel extra nourishing in winter.

Embracing the Season

Instead of pushing through winter, think of it as your chance to pause, restore, and gather energy for the year ahead. With the help of acupuncture and a few simple lifestyle shifts, you can stay balanced, healthy, and ready to blossom when spring arrives.

Ready to experience the benefits of acupuncture? Schedule your acupuncture session today

❄️ Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can acupuncture help me stay healthy in winter?

Acupuncture helps strengthen your immune system, improve circulation, and reduce stress — all of which keep your body balanced through the colder months. It also supports your Kidney energy, which is key for vitality in winter according to Chinese medicine.

2. How often should I get acupuncture in the winter?

Everyone’s needs are different, but many people benefit from treatments every 2–4 weeks during the winter season. Regular sessions help maintain balance, support immunity, and prevent seasonal fatigue.

3. Does acupuncture help with the “winter blues”?

Yes! Acupuncture can calm the nervous system and boost the release of serotonin and endorphins — your body’s natural mood-lifters. Many people find it helps them feel more relaxed, centered, and emotionally balanced during darker months.

4. Are there foods I should eat more of in winter?

Yes — warm, nourishing foods like soups, stews, root vegetables, beans, and whole grains are ideal. Warming spices such as ginger, cinnamon, and garlic also help keep your energy strong and your digestion happy.

5. Can Chinese herbs help too?

Definitely. Herbal formulas can be customized to boost your energy, support your immune system, and nourish the Kidneys during winter. Always work with a licensed practitioner to find the right combination for your body.

6. What’s the most important winter wellness tip?

Rest and recharge! Just like nature slows down in winter, our bodies need extra care. Prioritize sleep, keep warm, and give yourself permission to do less — it’s how your body restores energy for the seasons ahead.