My personal health tips for cold & flu season.
As we head into the thick of cold and flu season, it's more important than ever to take steps to stay healthy. I wanted to share a few personal tips that my family and I use to boost our immunity and keep illness at bay during these colder months.
1. Warm Foods & Drinks
We focus on nourishing the body with warm, grounding meals. Soups, stews, and teas are our go-to’s. Ginger tea with a bit of honey and lemon is a family favorite for warming the body and supporting digestion.
2. Hydration is Key
Even in colder weather, staying hydrated is essential. We sip warm water throughout the day to keep the body hydrated and the digestive system moving smoothly. Warm liquids help soothe the throat and keep mucus from building up.
3. Nasal Washes
One of our family's favorite ways to stay clear of colds is using nasal washes. It helps flush out allergens and viruses, keeping the nasal passages clean and reducing congestion. We try to do this daily and at the first sign of sniffles.
4. Homeopathic Remedies
We turn to homeopathic remedies as a gentle and effective way to support our health. Popular ones we use include are Oscillococcinum for flu-like symptoms and Umka for cold prevention and immune support.
5. Daily Oil Massage (Abhyanga)
A daily self-massage with warm sesame oil is an Ayurvedic practice that we love. It keeps the skin hydrated, promotes circulation, and supports the immune system. It’s also a calming way to start or end the day and protects against the dryness of winter.
6. Support Your Immune System
We take natural supplements like elderberry syrup, echinacea, and Vitamin C. These are great immune boosters that help protect us from colds. We also make sure to eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables for their nutrients and antioxidants. Throwing it all in a soup or stew helps us get all we need in one bowl!
7. Rest, Sleep & Magnesium Glycinate
Getting enough sleep is essential for keeping the immune system strong. We aim for 7-9 hours of rest each night and make sure to wind down in the evenings with calming activities like reading and meditation (Johnny and I are currently reading The Princess Bride!). Taking magnesium glycinate before bed helps to promote restful sleep and relax the body, which is key to staying healthy and recovering faster if illness strikes.
8. Stay Warm
Keeping the body warm is important for preventing illness. We dress in layers, cover our necks and heads when outside, and use heating pads or hot water bottles if we feel a chill coming on. Keeping your neck warm will also help ease tension we carry in our shoulders.
I hope these tips help you and your family stay healthy this season! Taking a few extra steps toward wellness can make all the difference in preventing illness and promoting overall well-being.
Stay warm and be well!
