The autumn transition helps our bodies begin to prepare for the winter months. The shorter days are a reminder to go to bed earlier and the cooler weather reminds us to consume warmer foods. This transition is also a reminder to take better care of our health. It is important to nourish and protect our lung Qi during these months in order to prevent the common cold. It is much easier to prevent the cold then to treat it. So, the following are some fundamental practices to implement in order to keep your lung Qi and therefore, immune system strong.
1. Gargles: saltwater or echinacea tincture in water, gargle nightly or after exposure to illness. This is a great practice to make while flying.
2. Chewing xylitol gum: xylitol has been shown to create a type of “barrier” for the transmission of colds. Chew a piece when out in public or around anyone with a cold.
3. Avoidance of sugar: sugar suppresses the immune system.
4. Diet: transition to root vegetables, warm soups, and immune boosting mushrooms.
5. Exercise daily.
6. Wash your hands many many times a day.
7. Sleep at least 8 hours a night in a completely dark room.
8. Wear a scarf around your neck to prevent what Chinese medicine calls “a wind-cold invasion”.
9. And last, but definitely not least, pause and watch the leaves fall.