Winter is getting closer, you may have experienced the rapid weather change, and it is like four seasons in one day. This change may lead to sickness; many people catch head colds easily. How can we adapt to the change and stay well?  Some people would traditionally dose up on supplements, such as vitamin C, garlic or radish tablet. However, if you are not a fan of pills and looking for natural way to stay healthy, here are some take home tips for you that may help.

Illness prevention has been a very important part of Chinese Medicine. A good Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner (TCM) is expected to be helping you stay healthy, therefore, beside treatment, TCM practitioners often give you advice that relates to your diet and life style. The way to stay healthy and live longer is called “Yang Sheng”. Yang in Chinese means support & nourish; Sheng means live or life.

What is the “Yang Sheng” strategy to keep us away from the cold?

First, you have to nourish your heart and stay happy. According to Chinese Medicine theory, all obsessive emotions may cause negative effect in different organs and may lead to illness.  Stress has been reported to lower your immune system and make you sick. My idea is make sure you have a good laugh routinely, watch a stand up comedy or a funny movie.  You can supplement this with some gentle exercise, meditation and acupuncture as a positive way to reduce the stress too.

Secondly, diet is an important part of “Yang Sheng”. There is a saying that ‘you are what you eat’. Avoid deep fried and frozen food. In addition, ginger, lemon and honey in tea are effective elements for fighting with a cold.

Thirdly, why not finish a long day with a warm footbath before sleep; it is the simplest way to relax and improve your wellbeing. In conclusion, my “Yang Sheng” tips to stay away from a cold are laughter, good food and regular exercise. Of course, you are always welcome to visit me for a check up and discuss ways to maintain for your health and wellbeing.