Chic & Health

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Here are 5 tips to bring about the best chance to preserve and enhance our energy for the coming winter months. We need to remember that although this Fall’s cold and flu season has passed, school will be starting again after the holidays which brings a greater chance of getting sick.

To prepare for the cold and flu season, the Fall is the optimum time to build up the immune system. In traditional Chinese medicine the Fall is the time of harvesting, saving and storing what the abundant summer has produced. This principal applies to the human condition in that we have built strength and muscle and vitamin D stores to serve us through the less active winter months.

5 Means for Self Care

Here’s a brief list of the most important things you can do to enhance your health during the Fall and Winter season:

1. visit an acupuncturist to boost your body’s immune system

2. get the right mix and dosage of vitamins for your needs

3. eat nutritious food at regular times throughout your day

4. to strengthen the body and reduce stress exercise regularly

5. get enough rest to increase mental focus and generate more energy

Since colds and flu’s are just beginning to be circulated, these activities all enhance your immune systems and make you less susceptible from the outset. In my practice I’ve found that my clients start reporting colds about 1-3 weeks after school opens.

To prevent colds and flu, I use two different kinds of formulas. The first compound is a Chinese traditional formula, called “Jade Wind-Screen” and is used for strengthening the immune system. It is very effective and has been in use for thousands of years. This will help protect you from catching colds. This formula should be started in late summer/fall and be taken for two to three months.

At the first signs of a cold such as sore throat, runny nose, slight fever or chills and body aches, I use the second formula I use I call “Prevent a Cold” and it is based on Yin Qiao Formula (”Yin Chow”). This formula can prevent a cold from getting into the lungs. You take this formula 3-4 times per day for several days to end the cold faster. If you wake in the early morning with a scratchy throat or runny nose start taking the herbs and monitor symptoms throughout the day while continuing to take the formula. If the symptoms go away stop the formula but be ready to start the formula again at the first signs of a cold coming back. You can do this for several days but if symptoms do progress to a full blown cold then a more individualized formula will be necessary. Whenever you take herbs pay attention to how it effects your digestion. If you have any digestive problems should discontinue the formula and call your acupuncturist.

If you are worried about the H1N1 influenza virus that has been reported in the news the most important first step is being as healthy as you can. Using the Jade Wind-Screen formula will help as well as getting proper rest and nutrition. If you think you have come down with the flu you should also call your doctor.

Looking to find out how to use acupuncture and herbs to improve your health , then visit Susan’s website to find the best advice on colds and flu prevention.