The Kidneys

The kidneys are organs that filter and remove waste byproducts from our bloodstream. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, they also have the important job of storing Qi and Jing, our vital life energy and essence. All of our bodily systems rely on the kidneys to provide Qi. That’s why the kidneys are considered to be the root of life. 

As the storehouse for Qi, our kidneys are responsible for balancing Yin and Yang energy throughout our bodies. Yin and Yang are equal and opposing forces present everywhere in nature, including in our bodies. Each has their own characteristics: 

• Yin energy is nourishing, deep, still and calm, and represents grounded earth energy. 
• Yang energy is active, energetic, and fiery, and represents the sun. 

To maintain good health, Yin and Yang energies need to be balanced within our bodies. Deficiency in kidney Yin causes symptoms of heat, restlessness, sleep disturbances, night sweats, ringing in the ears, dizziness, low back aches, as well as red cheeks and tongue. When kidney Yang is deficient, it causes symptoms of fatigue, cold feet and body, edema, pale and puffy face, weak knees and low back, lack of sexual desire, and lack of willpower or motivation. 

It can’t be overstated how important our kidneys are to our health and the proper functioning of our bodies. On top of providing every bodily system with Qi, the kidneys also regulate and maintain the fluids in our bodies, as well as the excretion of waste. 

According to TCM, the kidneys produce marrow, which is a major component of our brains, as well as our bones. This is one example of how caring for our kidney health has far reaching impacts on our health. 

Lastly, as each of our organs is responsible for an aspect of our spirit, kidney spirit is called Zhi, and it governs willpower. This is because the kidneys are associated with the water element, which can wear away even the hardest stone given enough time. 

Ensuring that your kidneys are functioning optimally is essential to your overall wellness. You can support your kidneys by staying hydrated while avoiding alcohol, sugary drinks, and excessive caffeine. It’s also important to shield your lower back, where your kidneys are located, from the cold – especially in the wintertime. Foods like eggplant, black beans, plums, and seaweed are also good for supporting your kidney health.  

What is Qi? 

Qi, pronounced “CHEE”, is the fundamental or vital life energy that circulates through your body. Qi is the central underlying principle in Traditional Chinese Medicine. 

What is Jing? 

Jing is the Chinese word for “essence”. Jing is comprised of two parts: Yin, which is prenatal essence we receive from our birth parents; and Yang, which is essence we acquire as we move through life.