February and March exist in that quiet in-between space: the motivation of January has faded, the promise of spring hasn’t arrived, and the days are still shaped by cold temperatures, and limited sunlight. The ongoing uncertainty reflected in global headlines, paired with infrequent sunshine, frigid temperatures, and oppressive snow showers, has resulted in a low-grade but persistent sense of unease.
While we’re all well-versed in the foundational advice—regular exercise, proper nutrition, and a good night’s sleep—there are quieter, often overlooked daily habits that can gently but powerfully renew our energy. Going for walks, even in the cold, provides daylight exposure and rhythmic movement that soothes the nervous system. Singing (yes, even badly) stimulates the vagus nerve and lifts mood. Meeting with friends—whether face-to-face or through a simple phone call—helps regulate emotions through connection. And moments of quiet reflection or meditation allow the mind to settle, creating space between us and the constant stream of external noise.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, fluctuating moods and the “winter blues” often stem from constrained qi, particularly within the Liver system. When Liver qi becomes stagnant, emotions such as frustration, sadness, or irritability can surface and linger. Acupuncture works to gently release this constraint, restoring smooth flow throughout the body. At the same time, treatment supports the dynamic relationship between the Heart and Kidney systems—known as the Shao Yin axis. When this communication is strong, the Heart (which houses the shen, or spirit) feels anchored and calm, while the Kidneys provide the deep reserves needed for emotional resilience during winter’s inward, conserving season.
Chinese herbal medicine offers additional support through time-tested formulas that address both the emotional and physical aspects of low mood:
Xiao Yao San (Free & Easy Wanderer)
This formula is used to soothe Liver qi stagnation while supporting the Spleen and nourishing blood—an important combination when stress affects digestion and emotional balance.
Key herbs include:
- Chai Hu (Bupleurum)– moves Liver qi and relieves emotional constraint
- Dang Gui (Angelica sinensis)– nourishes and moves blood, supporting emotional flexibility
- Bai Shao (White peony root)– softens Liver tension and calms irritability
- Bai Zhu (Atractylodes)& Fu Ling (Poria) – support digestion and prevent emotional stress from depleting energy
- Gan Cao (Licorice)– harmonizes the formula
Xiao Yao San is often helpful when low mood is accompanied by tension, PMS-like symptoms, digestive changes, or emotional ups and downs.
Ba Zhen Tang (Eight Treasures Decoction)
Ba Zhen Tang is a deeply nourishing formula that builds both qi and blood, making it appropriate when emotional low mood is rooted in depletion rather than stagnation.
Key herbs include:
- Ren Shen (Ginseng)or Dang Shen – strengthens qi and mental clarity
- Bai Zhu& Fu Ling – support digestion and energy production
- Dang Gui– nourishes blood and emotional vitality
- Shu Di Huang (Prepared Rehmannia)– deeply nourishes blood and yin
- Bai Shao– supports blood and calms the nervous system
- Chuan Xiong– ensures nourishment moves smoothly
This formula is often used when sadness is accompanied by fatigue, weakness, brain fog, pale complexion, or a sense of emotional depletion.
Kai Xin San (Open the Heart Powder)
Traditionally used to “open the Heart orifices,” Kai Xin San supports clarity, emotional connection, and gentle uplift when the spirit feels heavy or withdrawn.
Key herbs include:
- Ren Shen– supports mental clarity and emotional resilience
- Fu Ling– calms the spirit and stabilizes emotions
- Yuan Zhi (Polygala)– enhances Heart–Kidney communication and emotional connection
- Shi Chang Pu (Acorus)– clears mental fog and supports focus
Kai Xin San is often considered when low mood presents with forgetfulness, rumination, emotional withdrawal, or a sense of disconnection. Each formula is selected and modified based on the individual, ensuring treatment matches not just the symptoms, but the underlying pattern.
Winter can be heavy—but it is also temporary. In nature and in our bodies, change is always happening, even when it’s not immediately visible. Energy begins to stir long before spring announces itself. With the right support, this season can become a time of restoration rather than endurance. And yes—this too shall pass.
