Brrrr!
If Fall is here, Winter is not far behind. We typically bring in the
yard furniture, winterize the weed whacker and car, but often forget to
winterize our bodies. Transition between seasons can be stressful, particularly
as we move from hot-to-cold or wet-to-dry environments. Here are a few
easy steps to follow to improve your health and wellness as you move forward
into Fall and Winter.
Let's focus on an easy 3-Step program you can start today that will cleanse
your system and winterize your body:
- Detox
- Digestion, and
- Deep Immune Building
DETOX
Many traditional cultures include some form of "cleansing"
to help prepare and maintain the body during seasonal changes. Detox programs
help to eliminate old waste from the body, improve the functionality of
the digestive organs, open and drain the lymphatic system. I generally
recommend one of the commercial Detox Kits; follow their directions closely;
go slow, nothing heroic! Continue for a minimum of two weeks. Be sure
the regimen includes extra fiber to absorb toxins, and extra water or
herbal teas to assist in flushing the whole system.
DIGESTION
One of the best digestive aids is herbal BITTERS. These herbs, while
having a range of properties and constituents, have in common a bitter
taste. This bitterness promotes appetite and in complex ways aids digestion.
There is a neuro-physiological connection between the mouth and the other
digestive organs. When we taste bitters, things begin to happen! There
is increased saliva in the mouth; messages go out to the stomach to increase
stomach acid, to the liver and gall bladder to dump bile, and to the pancreas
to release pancreatic acids into the digestive system. Your digestive
powers begin to rev up! Bitters must be tasted --- you can't take them
in capsule form, or disguise them in sweetness. There are bitter foods,
such as Bitter Melon, Romaine lettuce, and Vermouth. The best bitters
are liquids or tonics. You may choose from several brands; although
these products are bitter, some have additional flavoring such as mint
to make them more delectable. Take ½-1 teaspoonful mixed in 1oz. water
just 20 minutes prior to regular meals (not small snacks). It's not the
amount, but the "taste" that is important here. Have the solution
wash over your tongue, or "swish-&-swallow". With regular
use, bitters can increase appetite, reduce digestive sluggishness, increase
efficiency of liver function, decrease cholesterol, improve bowel regularity,
reduce inflammatory issues within the bowel, improve absorption of nutrients,
improve energy and stamina, and improve immune function.
DEEP IMMUNE BUILDING
There are numerous natural products that help to build and support immune
function. The protocol that I favor is called "The Fu Zheng Therapy".
This traditional Chinese herbal product has been used for centuries to
help balance and tone the body, and to protect it from external diseases. Fu Zheng literally means "to restore normalcy and balance
to the body." To rebuild general health and immunity, we use a combination
product which includes Astragalus, Schizandra, Reishi mushrooms, Codonopsis
and Licorice. Regular use strengthens the nervous system and fortifies
the deep immune response of our bodies, protecting us from those pesky
cold and flu viruses.
CAM THERAPIES
These are the Complementary and Alternative Modality therapies that are
now being re-introduced into our Western Healthcare system. We strongly
recommend integrating multiple healthcare modalities into your winterizing
program. Consider for instance:
-
A Homeopathic remedy called "influenzinum"
is formulated for this year's flus; no side effects or allergic reactions,
no fever, no muscle aches.
-
Therapeutic massage, bi-weekly or monthly, will assist the body
in removing waste, open the lymphatic system, reduce stress, improve
energy & stamina, and strengthen the immune system.
-
Acupuncture treatment can be a wonderful way to help attune your
system to the winter season. It can help to balance and increase the
qualities within you that are "winter-like": your capacity
for rest, quiet, stillness and reflection. As these qualities are
increased, you develop the power to grow and thrive throughout the
rest of the year.
-
Chiropractic work helps keep the joints "oiled" by opening
up nerve and blood flow. Techniques are varied according to the age
and health of the individual, including those with osteoporosis.
Dietary advice: During the winter months remember to consume
plenty of fluids. Eat as many fresh fruits and vegetables as possible.
With shorter days and longer nights, it is easy to eat more food out
of boredom or to not eat because outdoor activities have slowed down.
Keep non-perishable dried beans and other soup ingredients on hand to
be used on those cold, snowy wintry days.
Preparing and maintaining your body for the Fall and Winter Seasons should
be your Number One priority. Taking a proactive approach will go a long
way toward keeping you healthy and ready to enjoy life. Good Health to
all. |
