Fertility is a natural and integral aspect of human life. In Chinese medicine and shamanic traditions, fertility is seen as a manifestation of the body’s balance and harmony. By acknowledging, living by, and honouring the season of winter, the aligning parts of the cycle of the 24hr day, the lunar cycle, and the menstrual cycle, we can support and preserve fertility. The Kidneys, Yin, and Jing are crucial elements in this process.
Winter & The Kidneys
Winter is a season of introspection, reflection, and rest. It is a time to slow down, conserve energy, and prepare for the renewal of spring. In Chinese medicine, the Kidneys are the organ system associated with winter. They are responsible for storing and regulating the body’s essential energies, including Yin and Jing. Yin is the feminine principle, representing the cool, dark, and nourishing aspects of life. Jing is the essence of life, the vital energy that sustains us and provides the foundation for fertility.
Supporting Fertility
To support fertility, we must honour the season of winter and the Kidneys. This means taking time for rest and introspection, nourishing our bodies with warming and nourishing foods, and practicing gentle movement exercises such as tai chi or qi gong. It also means protecting ourselves from cold and dampness, as these can damage the Kidneys and deplete our vital energies.
In addition to honouring the season of winter, we can also align ourselves with the cycle of the 24hr day, the lunar cycle, and the menstrual cycle. Each of these cycles has a Yin and Yang aspect, and by living in harmony with these cycles, we can support and preserve our fertility.
The night time is the Yin phase of the 24hr day, a time of rest and restoration. By getting adequate sleep and allowing ourselves to rest and rejuvenate at night, we support our Yin energies and promote fertility.
The Dark Moon and Menstruation
The dark moon is also a Yin phase of the lunar cycle, a time of introspection and release. By honouring the dark moon and allowing ourselves to let go of what no longer serves us, we clear the way for new growth and fertility.
Finally, menstruation is the Yin phase of the menstrual cycle, a time of shedding and release. By honouring our menstrual cycle and allowing ourselves to rest and restore during this time, we support our fertility and our overall health.
In Chinese medicine, the Kidneys are considered the root of fertility, and the nourishment of Yin and Jing are crucial for preserving and supporting fertility. By honouring the season of winter, the aligning parts of the cycle of the 24hr day, the lunar cycle, and the menstrual cycle, we can support our Kidneys and nourish our Yin and Jing energies. This, in turn, can support and preserve our fertility and overall health.
