The Water Element in Chinese Medicine: Kidneys & Bladder

A closeup of an ocean's wave to represent the water element in Chinese Medicine.

How The Body Works

In Traditional medicine, certain body systems are associated with an organ name and a meridian.  Each system and its energetics are stronger during its season. 

Eating and working with acupuncture points and herbs that fall in line with that season helps us stay more in balance within our bodies and therefore maintain better health.

In The Midst of Winter: Hone In On Your Kidneys & Bladder

As we move through the winter season, it is a time to rest but stay active enough to keep the spine flexible and joint pain at a minimum. Winter is the end of all seasons and a time of dark, slow Yin. The cold and darkness drive one to seek inner warmth.

The winter season supports the yin energetics of the kidneys and the yang energetics of the bladder. In Chinese physiology, these organs govern water metabolism. The kidneys are seen as the root foundation of the body, providing energy and warmth, and ruling the lower parts, including sexual organs and their reproductive functions. It is said they are “open to the ears”, meaning that our hearing is related to the health of our kidneys.

When the Water element is out of balance, we may observe dizziness, minor cold signs (aversion to cold, cold extremities, etc.), pale complexion, dry throat, dry mouth, fever, low backache, or weak legs.

We Can Help If You’re Feeling Dizzy Or Cold

At Mighty River Wellness we use the Kidney Meridian frequently to amplify these energetics and support fertility. 

The Chinese symbol for "Water."

Below are more categories associated with the Water Element:

  • Viscera: Kidneys

  • Bowels: Bladder

  • Sense Organ: Ears

  • Tissue: Bones

  • Emotion: Fear and Fright

  • Season: Winter

  • Environmental Factors: Cold

  • Color: Black

  • Taste: Salty

To read more on another Element, Metal, check out our other blog post HERE.


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