Most of us do not have that option so we must use “home remedies” to help us through our winter. Our reality is probably limited to healthy life style choices supported by wise supplementation. Ben Franklin’s observation about an ounce of prevention is excellent advice, and a few suggestions for you follow.
1. Wash your hands:
Wash your hands often and thoroughly. This is a very social time of the year and viruses love to travel around looking for a new host. Remember the thought of humming happy birthday to yourself while washing your hands and that will take care of the thorough part. Virtually any physical contact increases the risk of germ transmission.Be especially diligent if you have been handling shopping carts, shaking hands, counting money, using a shared telephone or computer, etc.
2. Fresh air:
Viruses have short lives in fresh air so go for walks outdoors and practice deep breathing because they don’t like oxygen rich blood either. Follow this link on my website: hardmanacupuncture-tcm.com/topics for Therapeutic Breathing. Using acupressure on the point gῦ chί (Li-11) will also increase your blood oxygen saturation. It’s located at the end of the transverse elbow crease with your elbow flexed.
3. Avoid stress:
Sometimes the best gift is creating and sharing a memory, rather than adding more stuff to our over crowded lives. Hibernation is not our norm although we do need proper sleep to keep our immune system healthy. If you wake up in the morning feeling tired you are sleep deprived. Pace yourself and get proper rest. Need help? – consider Shaklee’s Stress Relief Complex.
4. Avoid sweets:
To paraphrase an old expression, practice everything in moderation, including moderation.Sugar is guaranteed to suppress our immune system and the “temptations” in this season have a definite negative effect on maintaining our health and resistance.A suppressed immune system will increase your risk of cancer.
5. Supplements and Vitamins:
Linus Pauling had it correct, supplementation can have a positive effect on our health. Shaklee has excellent options to boost our immunity and keep us healthier. My personal choices include their Defend & Resist, Nutriferon, Vita-C500 Sustained Release, Vita-D3, and Vitalized Immunity. They all have a 100% money back guarantee.
6. Acupuncture:
Book a balancing immune system treatment around the Solstice (Online or 604.524.6855) and enjoy the holidays in good health.
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Years!!!
Dr. Bill