Easy & Natural Cold Prevention Tips
Tis the season! …for runny noses, phlegm filled coughs, and tickles at the back of our throats. It’s an unavoidable reality, even for the healthiest of us. And while we can’t always fully ward off colds and flus, we certainly can arm our bodies and give them the support they need to minimize the impacts of bacterial and viral invaders.
By this time of year, I like to ensure my stock of preventative remedies are in full supply and incorporated into my daily routine. Below are some of my favorites for you to consider adding to your arsenal, as well. Pick ones that feel intuitive to try and are easy enough to procure or incorporate as a new habit. Tending to our bodies should feel easy and natural, rather than becoming another stressor!
Remember that by incorporating any of these easy steps, we are affording ourselves more time to spend celebrating holiday traditions with our loved ones or just enjoy the coziness of this season.
Herbal Allies
Basil, Thyme, Oregano or Lemon Balm Tinctures - These are all common and readily available herbs that can be consumed daily to provide antibacterial and antiviral support.
CCF (cumin, coriander, fennel) Tea - This has dual benefit of strengthening your digestive fire (which allows your body to properly digest and assimilate your food) and supports your immune system via your digestive tract (where around 90% of your white blood cells reside).
Ginger, Tulsi (holy basil), Turmeric, and Cinnamon - Get these regularly into your body through foods, teas, or even tinctures. These as well are readily available in most grocers and hold strong antibacterial and antiviral properties.
Chyawanprash Herbal Jam - This one is for the more adventurous. It’s a complex concoction of immune enhancing herbs that can be eaten by the spoonful or spread on toast. It is an acquired taste for sure, but I am able to eat it year round every morning and actually look forward to it!
Diet & Lifestyle Habits
Protect Your Sleep - This is your time to eliminate ama (cellular waste) from your body. Give your body adequate time to keep your vessel clean.
Move Your Body - This keeps your lymphatic system working more efficiently to move nutrients around and keep you strong, and,, yes you guessed it, eliminate ama.
Use Neti Pots & Nasya (nose) Oil Daily - Neti keeps your nasal passages clean and clear and nasya oil keeps your nasal cavity lubricated which strengthens the mucosal barrier that prevents germs from entering your respiratory system.
Reduce Sugar & Alcohol - I’m sure you already know this, so here’s your reminder. Both tax your liver significantly, so should a bug enter your system, you’ll have a much harder time fending it off. Keeping your liver’s working capacity available increases your chances of remaining well.
Eat Warm Nourishing Foods - These help balance Vata and Kapha dosha, which often become unbalance in these colder months. They also keep our bodies lubricated, improve circulation, strengthen your agni (digestive fire), and make you feel cozy and grounded.
Wishing you wellness, Renee