don’t let the cold + flu stop you this winter!
how to prevent the cold + flu this winter
Ohhhh it’s FLU SEASON!
Parents…are you constantly getting sick or already got the flu? Yes, it’s definitely going around and the reality is that it will never go away.
Moms have shared their stories on how they are constantly getting sick because their child goes to daycare, school, or simply by being around people. We know children are slowly building their immunity and well parents are affected by this as well.
SO WHAT HAPPENS TO OUR BODIES EXACTLY?
In Ayurveda, the emphasis on eating wholesome and seasonal foods is extremely important. WHY DO YOU ASK?
Well, let me explain…
The winter season (usually between November - February) is considered “Vata season”, so it’s important to consume more soups, stews, nuts, grains, and foods that are high in protein and fat that will keep us warm and healthy!
This is why seasonal foods such as – squashes, beets, carrots, potatoes, or any other root vegetable are important to consume because they are dense, making them rich in fiber, vitamins A & C, minerals, and loaded antioxidants, which will help support your health!
So what happens during the winter is that our bodies naturally get dryer – our skin and sinuses tend to dry out, creating more mucus membranes, which then generate more mucus in our bodies.
As a result, it creates a breeding ground for the cold, flu, and bacteria to grow.
HOW DO WE PREVENT THE COLD/FLU THIS SEASON?
Check out these 3 easy tips:
Consume turmeric - you can include this spice in your meals (e.g. soups or stews), indulge in a warm drink (e.g. golden milk), or juice turmeric root and mix it with your daily juice.
benefits: it’s an immune-system spice that you can take throughout the winter.
Add Ashwagandha to your meals - this root powder can be added to your oatmeal, smoothies, or even morning coffee
benefits: ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that has been shown to boost your immune system. Adaptogens can help relieve stress, and anxiety, and even get you through any holiday stress!
Give yourself an Ayurvedic massage - self-massage with immunity boosting oils (e.g. sesame oil) can help calm the nervous system.
benefits: it will help you destress and the natural oils can even help prevent eczema and rashes.
WHAT IF YOU ARE ALREADY SICK?
No worries, I got something for you here!
3 tips to ease your cold/flu:
Flush out the toxins! Stay hydrated as much as you can by drinking room temperature or hot water. Why hot water?
it’s easier for your body to absorb warm water
helps flush out toxins from the body
hydrates mucus membranes and will help loosen that nasty mucus
Get yourself a warm bowl of soup. Stick to light soups with seasonal veggies that can be easier to digest than dense and heavy soups.
Ginger it up! Make yourself ginger tea, cook with ginger, or if you’re feeling risky go for the ginger shot! Ginger can relieve the symptoms of nausea and vomiting if you have the flu.
I hope these tips help! Also, please consult with your doctor if you have any medical questions.
Feel free to reach out to me at arosales@yogaandrealucia.com if you have any questions. Stay warm & safe this winter!
May the divine light shine within you.
Namaste!
XO
Andrea
