“Dampness” is a term we use a lot intraditional Chinese medicineand acupuncture.
But what is dampness, and how does it affect our bodies?
So how do you know if you are affected by dampness?
One of the best ways to measure this is by looking at your digestion.
Chances are you may have some damp accumulation.
Quite honestly, most of us do.
And we have our sedentary lifestyles and poor diets to thank for that.
This is what “dampness” feels like.
Whether you’re experiencing dampness externally or internally (or both!)
you will feel weighed down with low energy and often complain about foggy thoughts.
There’s often a heavy sensation throughout the body expressed in some form.
Some may feel as if their limbs weigh a ton, like you’re walking in mud.
Another sign of damp accumulation will show up in our respiratory system.
Maybe you’re experiencing loose or sticky stools?
Maybe youreczemais acting up?
This has everything to do with dampness manifesting in different ways.
How do you prevent dampness during cold months?
As we are approaching the winter season, it’s important to remember to keep our earth cauldron warm.
We are in a different season, which calls for different types of activity and foods.
Avoid foods and drinks that are cold in temperature.
We have to be able to guard our internal environment against the external environment during this time.
Cold internally can cause pain and stagnation.
Think about what cold does: Cold obstructs and tightens.
This will create stagnation in the form of undigested food within the stomach and large intestines.
If you must do a smoothie, don’t add ice or frozen fruits or vegetables.
After blending, let it sit out to remove more of the chill before consumption.
Focus on broths and soups.
Drink a cup of bone broth or soup, like a carrot-ginger.
Eating foods that work to support the spleen and stomach can also help prevent dampness.
Congee is rice that has been cooked down to a soupy consistency.
Congee can be savory or sweet, depending on your taste.
Learn to love warming drinks.
