As the new year settles in, many face the challenges of winter’s cold, short days. The Thai Traditional Medicine (TTM) doctors at the new, world-class wellness retreat Layan Life by Anantara are offering expert advice for those battling through the winter months with a holistic approach to maintaining health and balance. Here’s how you can align your habits with TTM principles to thrive through winter and the rest of the year.
Traditional Thai Medicine Overview
TTM is rooted in the belief that the body is governed by four elements: Earth, Water, Fire, and Air. Each element plays a role in physical and mental well-being:
Earth: Represents the physical structure, including muscles, bones, and tissues
Water: Governs bodily fluids such as blood, saliva, and lymph
Fire: Controls digestion, metabolism, and body temperature
Air: Influences movement, breathing, and the nervous system
Winter, characterized by cold and dryness, can disrupt the balance of these elements, particularly Fire and Water. TTM emphasizes restoring harmony by tailoring food, drinks, and habits to counter these imbalances.
Tips for Winter Wellness with TTM
1. Warm and Nourishing Drinks
To combat the cold and support digestion, opt for these TTM-recommended beverages:
Ginger Tea: A staple in TTM, ginger is warming and aids digestion. Add honey for additional soothing benefits.
Turmeric Shot: Turmeric helps reduce inflammation and supports immunity.
Lemongrass and Lemon Tea: This fragrant tea promotes relaxation and supports detoxification.
2. Seasonal Foods for Balance
In TTM, winter calls for warm, easily digestible foods to maintain internal heat and nourish the body. Consider these:
Soups and Stews: Prepare dishes with ingredients like galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and chili to enhance warmth and flavor.
Root Vegetables: Sweet potatoes, carrots, and pumpkins are grounding and nutrient dense.
Warming Spices: Incorporate cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper into meals to stimulate circulation and digestion.
3. Healthy Habits for Winter
TTM encourages practices that promote circulation, relaxation, and balance:
Self-Massage: Use warm oils infused with herbs like plai (a medicinal herb in the ginger family that is native to Thailand) or ginger to soothe muscles and improve circulation.
Stretching and Movement: Gentle exercises such as yoga or tai chi help maintain flexibility and prevent stiffness.
Warm Baths: Add herbal sachets containing Thai herbs like kaffir lime and lemongrass to your bath for relaxation and detoxification.
4. Protecting Emotional Well-Being
Winter’s short days can impact mood. TTM suggests mindfulness practices to maintain emotional balance:
Meditation: Focus on deep breathing to calm the mind and balance the Air element.
Aromatherapy: Use essential oils such as jasmine, ylang-ylang, or sandalwood to uplift your spirits.
Embracing Balance in the New Year
By aligning your diet, habits, and mindset with TTM principles, you can navigate winter’s challenges and embrace the new year with vitality. Remember, balance is key—listen to your body and adjust as needed. Here’s to a healthy and harmonious 2025.
READ MORE in the winter 2025 issue of City Style and Living Magazine.
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