A Happy and Healthy New Year to You!

As I sit here typing with a cup of soothing lemon, ginger tea gazing out the window at the peaceful snowy scene, I think of how fortunate I am to be able to enjoy my own health and wellness. I’d like to share a few winter wellness tips with you.

* Cover your head and neck with a hat and scarf when outside in the cold, windy weather. This is such a simple thing to do, but so many people just don’t do it. It really can help prevent colds and asthma exacerbations in those with cold weather triggers.

* Take some time each day for quiet contemplation, meditation or prayer, if this is part of your spiritual practice. Quieting your mind from the “noise” and distraction of the day benefits your mind, body and spirit. Meditation can be as simple as entering a quiet space, closing your eyes for a few minutes, and focusing on your breath. Some people find repeating a word, also called a mantra, such as “peace” or “calm” helps. It isn’t necessary to try to “stop thinking” about any negative thoughts that may enter your mind. Simply recognize the thought and allow it to flow on by. With some practice, meditation is possible for everyone.

* Consider adopting some simple Eastern nutrition practices to prevent illness and maintain wellness. Avoid drinking frozen and very cold drinks when the weather is cold, as this taxes the spleen and stomach meridians which are responsible for digestion and much of metabolism. Focus on soups, stews, root vegetables, cooked green leafy vegetables and grains such as rice, barley, amaranth, and quinoa. Remember, these are general recommendations only. It’s important to have individualized nutritional recommendations which your licensed acupuncturist can provide to you.

* If you do develop a slightly sore throat, sip some ginger tea with added honey. The honey will soothe your throat, and ginger is a natural anti-infective and anti-inflammatory. Use fresh ginger root sliced into thin slices rather than bagged tea if possible. If you develop a severe sore throat and/or difficulty swallowing, see your primary care provider without delay.

* Acupuncture is AMAZING for both preventing illness and treating cold-weather conditions such as the common cold. If you have never experienced acupuncture, consider adding it to your health and wellness plan. I’m happy to answer any questions you might have. Or, you can register to attend our Acupuncture Information Session at the Cherry Hill Public Library later this month. See the link on my “Events” page for more information.

I hope you’ll come back to read more blog posts to come. Thanks for reading, and I wish you health and wellness now and always!
Sincerely,
Cathleen