After the Start of Winter (Lidong), many people notice an achy lower back the moment they catch a chill. In TCM, the lower back is the “house of the Kidneys.” Winter belongs to Water and corresponds to the Kidneys, so caring for your lower back means caring for your Kidneys.
When the temperature drops, some people don’t notice cold hands first. Instead, the lower back starts to feel chilly and heavy, and after sitting for a while they need to steady themselves to stand up.
Ming Men and Shen Shu
On your lower back, level with your belly button, Ming Men (GV4) sits right on the midline of the spine, and Shen Shu (BL23) sits about two finger-widths out on either side. These are the key spots to keep warm and nourished in winter.
Three Ways to Warm and Nourish
1. Make loose fists and rub the backs of your knuckles up and down your lower back until it feels warm. Do this once in the morning and once at night.
2. When you head out, place a heat patch on your lower back (over your clothing), or wear a longer top that keeps your waist covered.
3. Use a warm compress for 15 minutes in the evening: heat a mugwort-and-wheat heat pack in the microwave and rest it on your lower back.
If your back pain comes with leg numbness or a fever, or started after a strain or twist, please see a doctor first.
Shop the ritual: Mugwort & Wheat Heat Pack →
Keep reading
- Frost's Descent (Shuangjiang): How to Move Through Autumn's Final Solar Term
- The Foot Soak: A Chinese Grandma's Bedtime Ritual
- Chinamaxxing: Why the West Is Suddenly Drinking Hot Water
We don't promise. We don't cure. We align. This article is for everyday wellness and cultural education only. It is not medical advice and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition. If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication or have a health concern, talk with your doctor first.
