water

kidneys & bladder

The Water element is all about containing our power and maintaining Jing, which in TCM refers to our reservoir of vitality, it can be easily lost through overdoing and is not so easily restored. The Kidney organ and meridian give rise to the power that fills the muscles of the body, it provides a fullness, a strength and a fearlessness. The Kidneys and the Bladder organ are responsible for filtering, purifying and eliminating water. The Bladder meridian is the longest meridian in the body and flows through the brain which links it very closely with the nervous system. When excitement and stimulation are increased the Bladder organ’s activity is heightened. Our emotional stability is dependent on the fullness of the Water element, along with the body’s function to move fluids and retain moisture. We interfere with the Water element when we lack sleep, are put under intense adrenal stress, and stand stationary for long periods of time. Dehydrating the body, too many stimulants (e.g. caffeine) and depriving the body of salt can also create disturbances in the Water element.

20 - minute Water Element Flow with Kitty

27 - minute Water Element Yin with Kitty

Here is a chart to further look at the qualities of the Water element:

depleted

  • Ringing in ears

  • Weak spine/body

  • Cold legs and feet

  • Frequent urination

  • Infertility

  • Lacks stamina/Will

  • Pessimistic

  • Absentminded

  • Fearful

  • Neurotic

balanced

  • Strong body

  • Lustrous skin

  • Strong Immunity

  • Warm hands/feet

  • Fearless

  • Fullness

  • Curious

  • Sensible

  • Watchful

  • Objective

congested

  • Hypersensitive

  • Headaches

  • Weak digestion

  • Difficulty sleeping

  • Hypertension

  • Kidney/Bladder stones

  • Stressed

  • Cynical

  • Demanding

In order to balance these effects on the Water element it is recommended to take plenty of rest from constant activities and go to bed as early as possible. To support the restoration of Jing consume warm salty liquids, like broth, and miso soup with seaweed. Brown rice, mushrooms, kidney beans and warm salty soups are some of the best meals to restore the Water element. Avoiding icy, cold foods, excess caffeine, refined sugars and processed foods. The best restorative pose for the water element is legs up the wall (Viparita Karani), known as the fountain of Youth, wonderful to calm the nervous system and prepare the body for deep sleep. The Makka Ho for supporting the Kidney and Bladder organs and meridians is Caterpillar pose or seated forward fold.