For a few months now we have been dealing with not one, but two different strains of flu! Needless to say it has increased the stress levels on the community locally and nationally. Oriental medical philosophy asserts that when a person’s qi (chee) or life force energy is constricted in any way, the body’s ability to maintain a balanced flow of energy is decreased and the potential for illness is increased. What constricts the qi? Stress, worry, not enough sleep, poor diet, lack of exercise and lack of joy to name a few. Medical studies have shown that within just three nights of poor sleep, our immune function drops an average of 60 percent!
Oriental medicine addresses illness by looking at the symptoms and then finding the underlying or “root” cause of the imbalance. All levels are explored—physical, emotional and spiritual. Fortunately there are many things we can do to assist the body’s immune system to stay strong and healthy during the winter months. Here are just a few suggestions:
1. Get a seasonal acupuncture treatment—these treatments are done around the actual change of season, for example, this year it’s on December 20. They are designed to align and balance the body with the natural energy of the season—resulting in a boost to the “Wei qi” or protective qi (immune system) of the body.
2. Stop worrying about “what” flu or bug you are going to get- stress reduces our immune system! Keep stress levels low with meditation, deep breathing, yoga, qi gong and tai chi.
3. Take immune supporting herbs and supplements like astragalus assists the body in adapting to metabolic stressors, keeps our thymus gland healthy and promotes vitality. Vitamin D3-strengthens immunity and supports the lungs.
4. Eat seasonal fruits and vegetables-root vegetables, especially those with high levels of beta carotene-carrots, yams, pumpkins, winter squash, and butternut squash. Beta Carotene is an antioxidant that improves immune function and mucous membrane health.
5. Wash your hands, get enough rest and exercise, and stay hydrated with plenty of fresh clean water. When the body becomes dehydrated, chances increase for bacteria and viruses to take hold. Guidelines suggest half your body weight in ounces per day (150 pound person equal approximately 75 ounce of water per day). Using a cool mist humidifier can also help keep mucous membranes healthy.
6. Keep your mental focus positive! Reflect on all the blessings in your life, things you are grateful for and things that you love.
Stay healthy, be happy, and infinite blessings to you!
For more information and to schedule your December 20 seasonal treatment, please call 661-252-4100.