HARMONISING BODY AND NATURE: EXPLORING COLDWATER THERAPY FROM A CHINESE MEDICINE PERSPECTIVE

In the intricate web of Chinese medicine, the principles of balance, harmony, and the interconnectedness of nature and the human body reign supreme. One ancient practice that beautifully aligns with these principles is coldwater therapy.

Let's delve into the depths of this rejuvenating practice through the lens of Chinese medicine, exploring its benefits and the wisdom it imparts:

Understanding the Energetics:

Chinese medicine views the body as an intricate system of energy channels, or meridians, through which Qi (life force energy) flows. The practice of coldwater therapy harmonizes with this philosophy, influencing the flow of Qi and supporting the balance of Yin and Yang—the fundamental forces in Chinese medicine.

Water as a Symbol of Transformation:

In Chinese philosophy, water symbolizes adaptability and transformation. Just as a river adapts to its course, our bodies adapt to the invigorating embrace of coldwater. This transformation is not merely physical but extends to the emotional and spiritual realms.

The Kidney Connection:

In Chinese medicine, the Kidneys are considered the foundation of Yin and Yang energies. They play a vital role in regulating the body's transitions, which makes them particularly significant during life stages such as perimenopause and menopause. Coldwater therapy, by nurturing the Kidneys, becomes a potent ally in supporting these transitions.

Benefits of Coldwater Therapy in Chinese Medicine:

1. Qi Activation: Coldwater immersion stimulates the flow of Qi, invigorating the body's energy and promoting a sense of vitality.

2. Yin and Yang Balance: The practice helps harmonize the dynamic interplay between Yin (cooling, receptive energy) and Yang (warm, active energy) within the body.

3. Kidney Support: By fostering the well-being of the Kidneys, coldwater therapy indirectly supports hormonal balance and the body's aging process.

4. Detoxification: The refreshing shock of coldwater prompts the body to release toxins, aligning with Chinese medicine's emphasis on purifying the body's energy channels.

5. Emotional Resilience: Coldwater therapy challenges the body and mind, cultivating resilience and a sense of calmness—an essential aspect of emotional well-being in Chinese medicine.

Incorporating Coldwater Therapy into Your Routine:

1. Start Gradually: Begin with short exposures and gradually increase the duration as your body adapts.

2. Consistency is Key: Regular practice enhances the therapeutic effects, supporting your body's natural balance.

3. Combine with Qigong or Tai Chi: Pairing coldwater therapy with these gentle exercises amplifies the energetic benefits.

Embark on Your Coldwater Wellness Journey:

Although it may not seem like it, there's no better time to embrace the transformative power of Coldwater Therapy than in Winter. There's no need to live by the sea, river or lake you could consider incorporating brief coldwater immersions into your routine, starting with gradual exposure and allowing your body to adapt. 

Whether it's a coldwater plunge, a refreshing shower, or a brisk dip in natural bodies of water, the benefits are profound, aligning with the holistic principles of Chinese medicine.

Harmony for The Mind, Body and Soul:

As we embrace the wisdom of Chinese medicine, coldwater therapy emerges as a harmonious practice, aligning the body with the elemental forces of water and fortifying the foundation of our well-being. So, the next time you take a plunge into the crisp embrace of coldwater, remember—you're not just invigorating your body; you're harmonizing with the ancient rhythms that have guided Chinese medicine for centuries.

Embrace the transformative power of coldwater therapy, and may your journey be as fluid and resilient as the river that flows through time.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider before incorporating new wellness practices into your routine.

 Photo credit: Wasing Estate, Berks

About Jo Darling MBAcC Lic Acu, Founder Menopoised®

Jo Darling is an acclaimed Chinese medicine practitioner and retreat leader, with expertise in women’s natural health and the founder of Menopoised® She’s passionate about helping women transition through menopause, whether natural or medically induced and is an experienced oncology acupuncturist.

Jo’s mission is to empower women to live healthier, happier lives sharing her 15 years of clinical experience harnessing the ancient wisdom of traditional Chinese medicine. She successfully works with patients to support them with mental and physical health imbalances from hot flushes to anxiety, low mood or low energy, migraines, insomnia and much more.

Jo integrates a range of Chinese medical techniques including acupuncture, gua sha, moxibustion and offers lifestyle advice (yang sheng) to help women help themselves. She offers both in person and remote treatment incorporating the use of essential oils to activate specific acupuncture points.

Jo Darling Wellness Retreats

Jo runs Chinese medicine retreats in the UK and abroad. Rooted in the principle of the Chinese clock, (when we do the right thing at the right time 1 day can seem like 3) Jo curates your stays to make the most of the energy of the day and season. Making selfcare effortless and lasting.

Her workshops are designed to make Chinese medicine a joy to embody, teaching selfcare tools to inspire you to take care of yourself. Enjoy gentle movement practices, acupuncture treatments, wonderful food and exquisite locations.

UK Wellness Retreat, Wasing Berkshire February 2024

Join me, for a weekend retreat filled with Chinese medical wisdom, stunning natural surroundings and nourishing food. Invigorate your senses with a wild swim (or toe dip) in the lake, warm up in the lakeside sauna and enjoy 2 hours of restorative, gentle yoga.

Stay at the estates Home Farm for dinner and personalised predictions for the year ahead. Plus support your mind and body with acupuncture and qi gong to help you gently move into Spring. More info here 

Spanish Wellness Retreat, Andalucia May 2024

Rest, restore and revitalise in the magical mountains, waterfalls and sunshine of Andalucia, Spain.

During our time together I’ll introduce you to the theory of the ‘Chinese Clock’ which explains that each organ has peak energy at a specific time of day. I'll show you how to harness this energy to optimise your wellbeing.

We’ll live and breathe the concept through a series of workshops, gentle movement practices and acupuncture treatments to help you take care of yourself. With lots of spare time in between to enjoy the wonderful food, sunshine, pool and caves of our magical luxury retreat. More info here. 

About Bazi Health Readings With Jo

Jo offers Bazi (chinese astrology) health readings to help you to understand yourself better. Through a reading with her you can find out what aspects of your health, mental and physical need more support and find out how to harness your strengths to help you feel better.

What you'll get from a reading:

* Empower yourself with greater self knowledge

* Understand you physical, emotional and mental potential

* Recognise and hone your strengths

* Learn how to support your health weaknesses

If you'd like to find out more about a Bazi health reading with Jo click here.

How Jo’s Cancer Patients Changed Her Life

Her work with cancer patients, helping to reduce the side effects of chemotherapy, radiotherapy and hormonal treatment has been life changing not just for her patients but also for her.

She noticed her cancer patients often experienced immediate and intense menopause symptoms (as a side effect of their treatment) and for some their hot flushes were so overwhelming they couldn’t even drive to her clinic. Menopausal herself and rocked by her best friend’s cancer diagnosis she decided enough was enough.

Jo says:

“I looked around for effective natural solutions, aligned with my principles and ethos that I could recommend to my patients. What I found was nothing. At least nothing that was proven to be effective that women could use at home and get the same effects as seeing an acupuncturist.

That’s when I took things into my own hands and created Menopoised®. Effective, natural, side-effect free and beautiful to boot. Because, quite frankly why shouldn’t products for menopausal women look and feel gorgeous!”

Armed with her extensive knowledge, practise-based evidence and expertise in Chinese Medicine she set about creating beautiful, effective products herself under the brand name Menopoised®.

Menopoised® Products

The Menopoised Menopause Magnet

For when your menopause is too hot to handle, helps get your cool back naturally. Each box contains four ready-to-wear magnets and 24 replacement plasters. Fast-acting, wear anytime and side effect free.  Read our FAQs here.

Embrace Cool, Find Calm, Be Collected Aromatherapy Rollerballs

When your menopause is getting you down, our aromatherapy pulse point oils help you Embrace Cool, Find Calm and Be Collected. Each intuitive and thoughtful blend is formulated to harness the natural healing principles of Chinese medicine.

Let the oils ancient botanical wisdom take care of you. Set of 3 x 10ml pulse point essential aromatherapy oils.

Embrace Cool releases the natural essences of wise Clary Sage, calming and balancing Geranium, refreshing Lemon and Cooling Peppermint to help take the edge off those moments of feeling overwhelmed and overheated.

Find Calm with delightful and luxurious Neroli to float you to cloud nine, whilst Lavender calms, Patchouli soothes and Ylang Ylang relaxes. A welcome moment of peace when you need it most.

Be Collected is a clearing blend that releases the natural essences of Rosemary to help you keep it all together along with cool Peppermint and woody Cypress, for those times when you need to be on the top of your game.

Cool & Calm Aromatherapy Cream

This luxurious Cool and Calm cream blends pure essential oils to calm the mind, balance the hormones and cool you down when you’re feeling the heat.

When your temperature’s rising Rose Geranium supports hormonal balance and cooling Peppermint brings a breath of fresh air and clarity. Woody Frankincense instills a sense of peace whilst Lavender’s relaxing properties infuse calm. Wise and cool Clary Sage helps to calm the nerves, with an affinity for hormonal health. 

Beautifully blended to nourish and restore this Cool and Calm cream harnesses the richly moisturising properties of cocoa and shea butters to help rehydrate and protect tired skin.