12/03/2026
Today is World Kidney Day, a global reminder of the important role our kidneys play in maintaining overall health and wellbeing.
From a western medicine perspective, the main job of your kidneys is to remove toxins and excess water from your blood. Kidneys also help to control your blood pressure, to produce red blood cells and to keep your bones healthy.
Each roughly the size of your fist, kidneys are located deep in the abdomen, beneath the rib cage. Your kidneys control blood stream levels of many minerals and molecules including sodium and potassium and help to control blood acidity. Every day your kidneys carefully control the salt and water in your body so that your blood pressure remains the same. (https://www.worldkidneyday.org/about-kidney-health/)
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Kidney system is considered one of the most important foundations of the body. It is believed to store our vital essence (Jing), supports birth, growth and development, rules the formation and function of marrow, bones, brains and blood, strengthens the lower back and knees, and plays a key role in energy, ageing, and reproductive health. It also has a special relationship with the ears and head hair.
When the Kidney system is out of balance, people may experience symptoms such as fatigue, lower back pain, poor sleep, low energy, or feelings of burnout. Menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes and night sweats are usually related to a deficiency of kidney yin qi. Acupuncture aims to support and strengthen the Kidney system when it is out of balance, helping to restore balance and support the body’s natural healing processes.
On this World Kidney Day, it’s a great reminder to take care of your kidneys — stay hydrated, nourish your body well, and prioritise rest.
If you’re interested in how acupuncture may support your health and vitality, feel free to reach out to me.