We are the most susceptible to illness when the seasons change. In traditional medicine the extreme climates are called "external pernicious influences." These are cold, damp, heat, dryness, wind & toxic pollutants.
Winter to Spring is when we catch a damp coughs and Summer to Fall is the chill that turns into a flu.
Here are a few tips that your grandparents would call common sense.
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- Cover the "Wind Points." Wind Points refer to places the external perniciouses can enter the body and compromise our immunity. Specifically the neck, wrists, ankles & kidneys (lower back). Get out the ankle-length socks, wrist warmers, scarves & sweaters. When morning & evening is 15 or more degrees colder than the mid-day forecast take layers.
- Consume cooked foods & warm drinks. The digestive system works extra hard to warm up our food & beverages while the immune system is keeping body temperature stable. Avoid "cold foods" like iced drinks, raw salads & frozen dairy. Pack a lunch that can be heated or take out a soup & grilled sandwich. When ordering your afternoon drink make it "hot, please." Want more evidence? Here is a link to a Hindustan Times article.
- Use the spices. It's easy enough to chop up fresh ginger & simmer it for a cozy cup of goodness. Add cinnamon, black pepper, cloves, cardamom, star anise, etc. to create your own chai blend. No tea is required for this time honored combination of immune protecting herbs. Experiment with anything that smells good, sweeten moderately & soften the flavor with milk or dairy substitute. Herbal infusions such as this can be made in a slow cooker or on the stove top. Here is a lovely list of seasonal spices by Only Foods.
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Yes, it's time to put away the tiny tops, sandals & no-see-um socks. Bring forth the hoodies, leggings & hat n glove sets. Or go on a shopping spree for new layers. Might I recommend a local thrift, vintage or consignment shop?
Wishing you a wonderful, warm & healthy season,
Christian
For those in Missoula, MT, and surrounding areas, check out my website for bodywork package options. https://offthematselfcare.com/
