The novelty is gone. The layers are heavy. And spring feels like it should be here by now…except it isn’t.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), this in-between stretch is considered one of the most vulnerable times of the year. Our reserves are low, patience is thinner, and the impulse to push, cleanse, or “power through” can work against the body. We’re also approaching the Lunar New Year and closing out the Year of the Snake, a natural time for reflection before the energy shifts.

Below, five practices to help maintain warmth, resilience, and energy through winter’s final stretch.

1. BEGIN THE DAY WITH WARMTH

Digestive fire tends to run weakest in the morning, especially when reserves dip. Starting the day with warm beverages like hot lemon water, herbal tea, or broth improves circulation and digestion without forcing the body to overextend. (1) Think: easing the engine on rather than flooring the gas.

2. DRESS TO SEAL IN ENERGY

Layering with natural fibers like wool and silk helps retain heat while regulating moisture. Pay special attention to areas where cold enters easily, like the neck, abdomen, and feet; even in the warmth of your home, make sure to keep these areas protected by wearing socks and slippers. Protecting these regions helps prevent further depletion and keeps internal warmth from leaking out. (2)

3. SKIP THE COLD PLUNGES

Longer days often trigger the desire to “wake things up” with cold drinks or excessive cold exposure. But late winter is not the best time for this. The kidneys bear the heaviest load now, and cold plunges or iced drinks can slow digestion and drain energy even further. (3)

4. PRIORITIZE WARMING MEALS (AND COMPANY)

Late winter is a great time to incorporate warming foods like ginger, garlic, root vegetables, and stews — all of which nourish the kidneys and spleen, grounding the body as seasonal energy begins to shift. (4) Extra points if they’re enjoyed with people you love.

5. EMBRACE SLOWNESS AND REST

Warm baths, saunas, and slower evenings calm the nervous system and improve circulation with minimal effort. (5) For added support, consider adding Sakara’s Serene State and Night Service supplements to your routine. Formulated with ingredients like L-theanine, tart cherry extract, and 5-HTP, they’re clinically proven to reduce stress, restore your nervous system, and promote restful sleep.

A TIME TO CONSERVE AND PREPARE

TCM reminds us that the most supportive choice right now is protection — of warmth, energy, and steadiness — so the body can meet the next season without strain. By resisting the urge to rush ahead and tending carefully to the basics, we create the conditions for a more easeful transition into spring.

Sources

1. Kaptchuk, T.J. The Web That Has No Weaver: Understanding Chinese Medicine. McGraw-Hill.
2. Pitchford, P. Healing with Whole Foods. North Atlantic Books.
3. Cheng, X. Chinese Acupuncture and Moxibustion. Foreign Languages Press.
4. Ni, M. The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Medicine. Shambhala.

Ernst, E. et al. “Balneotherapy and health.” Journal of Complementary Medicine, 2018.