The leaves are vibrant colors, the air is feeling crisp, and you're probably starting to pull out your sweaters and scarves. Fall is in full swing. With the change of season, you may find yourself sneezing, sniffling or coughing. The more your body is able to adapt to the change of seasons, the less likely you are to fall victim to the common cold and flu that are so frequent this time of year. Here are five simple and easy ways you can keep yourself healthy this fall season:
1. Eat foods in season
The yellow and orange pumpkins and squash at your local market are more than seasonal decorations. They are great foods to eat this time of year to bring more variety to your diet and strengthen your digestive system. Eating a well balanced diet is an essential part of maintaining vibrant health. Along with pumpkins and squash, sweet potatoes, beets, cabbage, apples, pears and figs are other great seasonal foods to eat this autumn.
2. Say good bye to ice
As the weather gets colder, your food & drinks should get warmer. Continue to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated, however this time of year it is best to reach for room temperature or warm water instead of iced drinks. I enjoy sipping on warm lemon water or hot herbal teas this time of year to keep my internal thermostat warm and cozy.
3. Dust off your crock pot
Eating warm cooked meals is important for proper digestive functions this time of year. Soups & stews are a great way to incorporate a variety of vegetables in your diet and nourish the body. As we say goodbye to summer, it is best to also cut back on summertime foods such as salads and sorbets in order to strengthen our bodies as the outside temperature drops. Incorporating pungent foods such as garlic, onions, parsnips, peppers, radishes and scallions will help to break up phlegm and mucus if you're suffering from nasal congestion or a wet cough. Also try experimenting with warming spices such as cinnamon, clove, cumin, fennel, ginger, mustard, nutmeg and turmeric to give your belly some extra warmth.
4. Bundle up!
You know that feeling you get when you catch a cold? Chills and a stiff achy neck... In Chinese medicine, the neck is viewed as the "wind gate", the area that allows cold air to penetrate and weaken the immune system. By keeping your neck covered and your body warm, your body will be less susceptible to pathogenic invasions, such as the common cold or flu. So this tidbit of wisdom from Chinese medicine likely corresponds to what your mother always told you, don't go out with wet hair and put a scarf on!
5. Get adequate rest
As the days are getting shorter, you may find yourself becoming naturally inclined to do more indoor activities and less vigorous exercise. The transition from summer to autumn is a transition from yang (vibrant, active) energy into yin (restorative, supportive) energy. You can help your body make a smooth transition by slowing down and getting adequate rest. Restful sleep allows our body to replenish and repair what has been depleted during our day-to-day routine and contributes to a strong immune system.
6. Try acupuncture & Chinese herbs
Chinese medicine offers safe and effective drug-free treatments that can help prevent you from getting sick. If you want to escape the cold and flu season unscathed, I recommend regular acupuncture and herbal treatments to give your immune system an extra boost. As a licensed herbalist, I often prescribe herbs for preventative care or to kick that little bug that you caught. So, if you do find yourself catching a seasonal cold, or you're just starting to feel crummy, acupuncture and Chinese herbs can get you feeling better sooner, without the use of overly prescribed antibiotics. Just remember, timing is everything so give us a call as soon as you feel something coming on. At Nourishing Roots Acupuncture & Wellness, we want you spending your time feeling healthy and happy! If you have any questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, contact us at SaraMillsAcu@gmail.com or call 828-222-0803!
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