Supporting Our Immune System During Winter
Photo by Cristina Munteanu on Unsplash
During winter, the energy in nature moves downward and inward. Trees and plants lose their leaves as their energy moves back into the earth to rest. They will conserve their energy waiting for the rebirth of spring.
We are also part of nature, and to maintain health during this season we need to pull back and conserve our energy. This is a time for rest, contemplation, and storage. It is a time for reflection, meditation, and gentle exercise, such as tai chi and yoga.
Our energy needs to be conserved because it can be easily depleted during winter. The energy pathways most active currently, are kidney and bladder and they are sensitive to damage by cold. It is important to dress for the weather and keep our bodies warm, especially the low back and core. If you are outside during a windy, cold day; protect your head, back of the neck, and shoulders.
It is also important to get more sleep. Days are shorter, and like nature, we should go to bed earlier.
Nourishing Foods for Winter
- Root vegetables
- Soups and stews
- Legumes
- Spices such as, ginger, cinnamon, garlic, and cloves will warm the body.
- Fresh vegetables
- Vitamin C, D and Zinc help support a healthy immune system
- Limit sugar intake which is harmful to the immune.
- Drink plenty of water
It also helps to exercise, reduce stress, and keep your body balanced with acupressure or acupuncture.
