I often get asked how to stay healthy during the Winter to avoid a cold or the flu, however there is more to it than just naming an herb. Whether we end up getting sick really depends on our immune system and how susceptible we are. Susceptibility depends on factors such as diet, activity level, stress level, and even how well we sleep. The tips below will help you stay healthy but also help if you do happen to get sick.
1. Make sure to get your nutrients in. It can be from fruits & veggies (preferably), herbs or herbal teas, or even a multivitamin. During the Winter, we can use extra nutrients especially around the holidays when we’re stressed and not making the best food choices. Also, a study has been done that links a lack of Vitamin D with getting the flu.
2. Get a good night’s sleep. Not only does sleep allow your body to recharge but it also conducts some healing at this time. How well you sleep is just as important as how long you sleep. If you have trouble getting or staying asleep, Chamomile tea may help (caution if you have an allergy to Ragweed, Chamomile is in the same family). Lavender essential oil may be of benefit as well. White Chestnut flower essence can help if you have thoughts running through your mind preventing sleep.
3. Stress less! It is very easy to get overwhelmed and anxious with all that we have to do during this time. Stress, though, wears down our bodies and makes us vulnerable to illness. Flower Essences are great to try for stress; elm is good for being overwhelmed, impatiens is for (as you guessed it) being impatient, and there is always Rescue Remedy. Chamomile tea can help with stress as well.
4. Eat onions and garlic. Both are great for keeping illness at bay as well as helping if you do get sick. Garlic is often called ‘Nature’s Antibiotic’ and onions are expectorant which is beneficial for coughs and mucus. You’re probably worried about your breath now but that’s where Parsley comes in. It freshens breath from both garlic and onions plus it has many nutrients (including vitamin C) that will support your immune system.
5. Use spices. This is just like the tip above- it helps at the first sign of illness and if you do get sick. Most spices have properties that can either ward off illness or lessen the effects. So cook with them or add a little extra to your meals, even something as simple as adding extra black pepper can help.
Hoping you have a healthy Winter!
Have you used one of these tips before? Do you have a tip for staying healthy during the Winter? Feel free to post a comment and let me know.
Until next time…
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