In winter, warm, cooked meals are especially comforting, such as soups, stews, or steamed vegetables. Warming foods like ginger, cinnamon, leeks, garlic, pumpkin, or sweet potatoes can provide additional energy. Cold or raw foods and drinks, such as salads or cold beverages, should be avoided as much as possible during this time of year, as they weaken digestion and make it difficult for the body to build up energy reserves. To warm the body from the inside out, it is recommended to drink warm beverages such as herbal teas or ginger tea. Since everyone is different, it can be beneficial to tailor your diet to your individual needs. A personal consultation with a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioner can help you find the right foods and habits for your personal balance.