Winter seasonal syncing at Billabong Retreat with a TCM approach.

Embracing Winter at Billabong Retreat: A TCM-Inspired Journey

I recently spent a restful and restorative couple of days at Billabong Retreat 1 hr west of Sydney. It was during the start of Winter, and it truly reminded me of the importance of aligning with the seasons — a core principle of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). I love working with the seasonal changes for my clients in clinic with their Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine formulas. But looking after myself is also important - physically, mentally and emotionally too during this Yin phase of the year.

Winter in TCM: Rest, Restore, and Nourish

Winter is the time to turn inward, rest, and build reserves. In TCM, Winter is ruled by the Water element, linked to the Kidneys and Bladder. But protecting the Spleen is also an important part as it supports our core energy reserves, essential for the immune system and digestion. The Spleen is particularly prone to the cold and is depleted by excessive cold and damp foods.

Cold depletes Yang energy, making us tired, sluggish, and more vulnerable to illness. In TCM, aromatic spices are key to warming and supporting the Spleen and Kidney Yang Qi.

By aligning our diet and lifestyle with the season, we help our bodies stay strong and resilient. Our goal? Make it easier for the body to thrive amid the extra bugs and stress of Winter.

• Conserve energy and rest more
• Eat warming, slow-cooked foods
• Use warming herbs and spices to support digestion and circulation
• Avoid excess cold and raw foods that can weaken our digestion

Easy Lifestyle Tips to help you feel more harmonised with Winter

• Prioritise early nights and deep rest.
• Gentle movement like yoga, meditation or Tai Chi.
• Keep your feet warm and try some grounding exercises such as a walking meditation or Qi Gong in socks! (Kidney meridian starts in the sole of the foot).
• Layer up — protect your lower back and neck from wind and cold.

Inspired by the Billabong Retreat's gorgeous food and their talented chefs, here are some Chinese Medicine-friendly recipes to sync and harmonise with Winter!

Poached Pears with Chai Spice Blend

A naturally sweet and warming dessert that gently supports the Lungs and Kidneys. Nourish Yin with pears, Nourish Yang with the aromatics.

Ingredients:
 2 ripe pears, peeled, halved, and cored
 2 cups water
 2 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
 1 cinnamon stick
 2 star anise
 4 cardamom pods, lightly crushed
 3 slices fresh ginger

Method:

1. Combine water, honey, cinnamon, star anise, cardamom, and ginger in a small pot.
2. Bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Add pears and poach for 10-15 minutes until tender.
4. Serve warm with some of the spiced syrup.

Beef Bone Broth with Cinnamon & Star Anise

Bone Broth Nourishing Kidney Yin, adding the pungent spices and onion warms the Yang.

• Beef bones, 1 cinnamon stick, 2 star anise, 3 slices ginger, 1 onion, water to cover.

• Simmer 6-8 hours. Strain and drink as a base for other meals such as soups or on its own.

Winter is a time to retreat, replenish, and restore — just like my time at Billabong Retreat.

If you're on Sydney's Northern Beaches and need help for seasonal adjustment with symptoms such as sinus, hayfever, recurrent colds and immune support, reach out here to make an appointment.

Further reading on Eating with the seasons:

TCM Dietary Therapy & Summer

Movement for Seasonal syncing - Summer