Reference; https://mbp-japan.com/jijico/articles/32461/
Modified and translated by CFJA
Exposure to wind can lower body temperature
Be careful about wearing light clothing in March — in Toronto, this applies more around May.
On Monday, February 23, 2026, the first spring wind (haru ichiban) was observed in the Tokyo area of Japan for the first time in two years. Haru ichiban refers to the first warm, moderately strong southerly wind that blows over a wide region between the beginning of spring (Risshun, around February 4) and the spring equinox (around March 21)❶.
During February and March, strong winds are common. In East Asian medicine, “wind” is considered one of the external factors that can influence the body’s condition. Prolonged exposure to wind can lead to a drop in body temperature. Since the liver plays a central role in thermoregulation, spending extended periods outdoors—such as in windy parks while lightly dressed—can place strain on the liver.
This seasonal period of fluctuating temperatures, often described as “three cold days and four warm days” (sankan shion), is a time when people are more likely to experience imbalances associated with liver fatigue. In Toronto as well, temperatures begin to rise in April and May, and people tend to spend more time outdoors. However, increased food and alcohol intake during this time can further contribute to liver strain. Spring is also considered a season when illness is more likely to manifest.
One representative condition that may arise from exposure to “wind” during this time is facial nerve paralysis. However, facial nerve paralysis can result from various causes, including central and peripheral disorders. Therefore, if you notice any abnormality in facial movement, it is essential to seek prompt evaluation by a qualified medical professional.
Causes of Peripheral Facial Nerve Paralysis
Facial nerve paralysis can be classified into central, peripheral, and traumatic types❷. Approximately 90% of cases are peripheral❸. While central paralysis accounts for about 10%, it is essential to properly differentiate whether serious conditions such as cerebral infarction (stroke) or intracranial hemorrhage are involved.
For example, in the case of a stroke, symptoms may appear transiently and then improve within a few hours. However, treatment within 4.5 hours❹ is critical for optimal recovery, so immediate medical evaluation is necessary. When facial movement is impaired, it should never be left unattended with the assumption that it will resolve on its own. It is important to take such signs seriously and respond promptly.
Peripheral facial nerve paralysis caused by viral conditions requires improvement of seitai power (the body’s inherent ability to maintain health and restore a diseased state back to a living, balanced state). Acupuncture and moxibustion (AcuMoxa) are therapeutic approaches that promote harmony within the body.
When applying East Asian medicine, its perspective on causes of disease is useful for understanding pathological conditions. Causes are classified into three categories:
- External factors (外因): wind, cold, heat, dampness, dryness, fire
- Internal factors (内因): joy, anger, worry, rumination, sadness, fear, shock
- Neither internal nor external factors (不内外因): improper lifestyle habits
In cases of facial nerve paralysis, the influence of “wind,” an external factor, is often considered. In East Asian medicine, such pathogenic factors are referred to as jaki (pathogenic influences), and the wind factor is called fuja (wind pathogen).
Based on clinical observations in Japan, common triggers in patients with facial nerve paralysis include:
- Falling asleep in the bath with a window open, allowing wind to strike the affected side
- Riding as a passenger on a motorcycle and receiving strong wind exposure on the affected side
- Prolonged exposure to air conditioning or a fan blowing continuously on one side without oscillation
- Staying on a rooftop or high building where strong wind continuously hits one side of the face
There are also cases triggered by sudden emotional shock:
- Being startled during a shower or when someone unexpectedly enters the bathroom
- (A Japan-specific example) experiencing intense fear when furniture toppled during an earthquake
In such cases, the internal factors of “fear” and “shock” are considered contributors.
In all of these situations, there may be an underlying decline in both physical and mental function.While exposure to wind can feel pleasant, it can also act as a pathogenic influence. When the factor of “wind” enters the body and disrupts internal harmony, it is referred to as kaze (commonly translated as “a cold”). There is a saying: “A cold is the source of many illnesses.” Therefore, it is important to be mindful of how we interact with “wind.”
References
❶ Japan Meteorological Agency – Seasonal Weather Column: “Haru Ichiban”
❷ Juntendo University Hospital, Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery – “Facial Nerve Paralysis”
❸ Nikkei Medical – Outpatient Quick Reference: “Facial Nerve Paralysis”
❹ National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center – “Specialized Stroke Emergency Care Remains Important Even After 4.5 Hours”
❺ “What Is Facial Nerve Paralysis? Causes, Treatment, and Rehabilitation” – ENT / Head and Neck Surgery Resource