We are approaching the time of year where sickness is around us and the fear of the sniffles starts to set in. I wanted to share some of my tips for staying well and how to combat symptoms when you feel a cold creeping in.
DRINK TONS OF WATER
It’s hard to remember to drink our water in the winter months when we aren’t out in the heat or sweating as much, but this is the time of year where we need more water than ever to keep our skin and body hydrated against the cold. It also helps flush out those bad toxins!
STAY ON TOP OF PROBIOTICS
I normally only take my Seed probiotics in the morning, but it doesn’t hurt to have a little extra through coconut yogurt or kombucha. Always check to make sure you get a kind with no sugar added! My fav brands are Cocojune, GT’s, and CoYo.
DRINK A HOT LEMON WATER BEFORE BED
I swear this does wonders for me! Anytime you feel a sore throat coming on, start drinking hot lemon water and even add ginger if you have it. I really notice a difference in how I feel the next morning if I have a cup right before bed!
DRY BRUSH AND GUA SHA
Dry brushing and gua sha both increase lymphatic drainage and promote healthy turnover of white blood cells. This aids in our immune response and lessens symptoms!
ANTIOXIDANTS + CITRUS
While I always am loading up on berries and citrus, if you start to not feel well, now is the perfect time to load up on all of these fruits! Whatever you do, DO NOT drink Emergen-C! It’s not good for you and your body will be much better off retaining the nutrients from whole, real fruits! (Vitamin C is also not the only player in defense :) )
PEPPERMINT STEAM SHOWER
I love turning on a steamy shower and putting a few drops of peppermint oil on the floor to open up my airways and sinuses! It seriously does wonders and makes your bathroom smell like a spa.
LIGHT EXERCISE
Take it easy with exercise and decrease cardio. Cardio stimulates stress hormones in the body which don’t need to be wasting their energy if you are already feeling down. Doing some stretching or yoga is best!
NOURISHING FOOD
Eat warming foods that are high in nutrients! Now is the time when you probably want to eat treats thinking it will make you feel better, but it’s the most crucial time to eat healthily. I love soups, warming rice bowls, and things with lots of spice! (now is a good time to drink a golden milk :) )