Once Thanksgiving has passed, we generally tend to think the winter season has arrived.
Winter is typically a refreshing time of year that many eagerly await. Living here in Florida, I can’t say I love the cold, but I do look forward to the cooler days we have during fall and winter. Don’t get me wrong, we often do get down to freezing during the winter months, but I don’t miss the snow and biting cold!
Still, for most, winter does bring the colder temperatures, the beautiful blankets of snow over the landscape, the festivities with family and friends, and the anticipation of a brand new year right around the corner.
Along with all of these great things, colds and the flu are also rampant. It can often feel like germs surround you anywhere you go this time of year, but by boosting your immunity, you’ll be less susceptible to catching those colds.
I can definitely tell you that this works for me. Recently, my husband spent a good portion of three weeks sick with chills, fever, cold symptoms, coughing …. all those great things that go along with cold and flu season. I was so thrilled that with following some of these things I am outlining below, I did not get sick, but continued on in good health.
Here are a few of my favorite natural ways to boost my immunity during the colder months.
Eat harmoniously. Eating whole foods, especially locally-sourced ingredients, is best for maximum nutrients, flavor, and freshness. For big flavors that boost immunity, make sure you cook with immunity-strengthening items like garlic, onions, ginger, turmeric, and cayenne pepper.
Make sure you’re getting these vitamins. Citrus, bell peppers, dark green vegetables, and berries are all excellent sources of vitamin C. Even with the cold weather, it’s important to get outside in the sun for a few minutes each day. It’s a great way to get the vitamin D your body needs, and a few minutes of fresh air always boosts your mood and energy levels!
Stay hydrated. When our bodies are dehydrated, it’s much easier for us to become susceptible to illnesses. You can always add a wedge of lemon to give it more flavor, plus you’ll get more vitamin C — a win-win.
Get those Z’s. In a society that tends to run themselves ragged, take the time to get your rest and rejuvenate. You’ll be less likely to get sick if you sleep 7 to 8 hours a night, even if you come into contact with the people that are battling an illness.
Get moving. Exercise is one of the best ways to benefit your body overall, but it also helps keep your immune system strong. Even if you only have time for a 10-minute walk after lunch, take it. It will help your body fight off illness.
No one likes getting sick so reduce your chances of being bed-ridden by being proactive about your health right now!
It is possible to go through the cold and flu season staying healthy and well. Try some of these things, and if you have any other great tips, hit reply and let me know.
Great points, Lynne. I worked in a doctor’s office for 6 years, years ago. By doing some of the things you’ve suggested and making hand washing a must do I was able to work there and make it through the cold and flu season every year without getting sick. I never got the flu shot either, even though I could have gotten it free of charge.