The body is an amazing framework of interwoven processes. In fact, we are a system of systems! And one of these system-structures is the immune system – an amazingly intricate and complicated operation made up of billions of cells and molecules spread throughout the body. It is named the immune system and put in a category of its own, but the fact is that it depends on several other organ systems in the body to function properly. Major co-players are the lymphatic system, which is about drainage and clean up, and the endocrine system that releases hormones which control and coordinate a range of bodily functions. Other big contributors are the nervous system, the gut, the heart, kidneys, lungs and skin.
The skin is the largest organ of the body and functions as the necessary interface between the internal and external environment. It is an immunologic organ and a physical fortification to outside materials and organisms and works as a vital barrier in the front line against infection.
Its unique role and function is a direct result of its structure and makeup and it is the home to billions of cells with various functional roles – cells which are in constant dialogue with microorganisms living on and in us. When it comes to immune defence, some skin cells can make proteins that block viral infections and others interact with pathogens that have managed to slip through the outer layer of the skin, creating an important immune response.
So the immune defence in the skin-landscape is of high priority to maintain good health. 

Every day our bodies are exposed to countless toxins and stressors that can put a strain on our immune system. And if the immune system becomes compromised, it can lead to illness and other serious health issues. 

In Chinese medicine, different elements and weather patterns are dominant in different seasons. Like rain of the spring, heat of the summer, wind of the autumn and cold of the winter. 
Winter is considered the peak time of the Yin energy and it is represented by the element of water.
Winter is the dormant season when all life burrows deep within the bosom of the Earth. It is the hibernating time replenishing the wellspring of life. And when spring comes, the gathered energy will burst forth with new growth. Wintertime governs the water element, with the associated bodily organs kidneys and adrenal glands and the bladder as partner organ.
Also called the ‘root of life’ the twin, bean shaped organs located at the back of the body on either side of the spine store Essence (Jing), something needed by the entire body and all organs to thrive. Being the powerhouse of the body, the kidneys help supply reserve energy to any other organ running low on Chi, our vital life force energy. Another positive aspect of the Kidney energy is our will power and drive.
The kidneys are powerful chemical factories that are involved in several vital body processes. They regulate the amount of fluid in the body, eliminate waste products and help balance electrolytes as well as maintaining the right PH of the body. They produce hormones that affect the function of other organs, they help regulate blood pressure, the fertility and sex organs, bones, teeth, hair and hearing. All in all they produce a life sustaining job and they are extremely important to our health. And the winter is the time to take extra good care of them, since this season is particularly demanding on the kidney essence.
During the winter’s longest, darkest and often coldest nights we may look for something warm to bring some fire into the water. Lighting candles and gazing into the flames of hearth fires naturally produce warmth and reflection with the radiance of the fire renewing our own inner flames. Brewing herbal potions at this time serve to brighten our internal fire, nurturing and comforting us. Warm soups, baths and herbal teas also do us good during the wintery months. The berries and flowers of elderberries are packed with vitamins and antioxidants helping to boost our immune defence and prevent and ease cold and flue symptoms. A delicious warm toddy can be made from a syrup of the deep purple berries. Drinking warm or tepid water also helps move the vital Chi (energy) of the body faster and more efficient than cold water.

Meditation and yoga, energy work such as Qi gong or tai ch’i will help tone and enhance the water element and aid healing to our kidney energy. And make sure to keep the lover part of the back warm, the lumbar spine area where the kidneys reside, as this will help keeping a healthy immune system during the winter and change of seasons.
Apart from eating a healthy diet, there are also various foods that can aid in supporting kidney energy. Grains like barley and black rice, black beans, black sesame seeds, chestnuts and walnuts. Blueberries, blackberries and raspberries. Green leafy vegetables like spinach, kale and parsley. And beets and ginger! Also some Chinese tonic foods and adaptogens like He Shou Wu, Reishi and Cordyseps mushrooms and Schizandra berries are very good.

So there are several things that can be done to boost our immunity. Exercise, quality sleep, keeping hydrated, topping up on beneficial vitamins and minerals, supplementing with vitamin D3, getting enough fresh air and time spent in nature, detox and reducing our toxin load are all things that will have big impact on your immune system. But there is even more we can do – keeping our skin healthy and happy by incorporating a high quality body oil to our daily regimen.