Brookline Acupuncture – Inner Sage Boston Acupuncture
Staying Healthy in the Winter Months
In my practice, it’s imperative that I stay healthy and keep my immune system strong, in order to best serve my patients. How to I ward off colds and boost my immune system?
What’s in my winter wellness cabinet (and yes, it is a cabinet- full!)
General Maintenance:
- black elderberry extract
- liquid zinc
- immune -boosting probiotics (in the fridge, so not technically in my cabinet)
- vitamin D3
- vitamin C
- lysine
- garlic
As needed – If I’m around a lot of sick people, or feel run down:
- oregano supplement form
- yin qiao herbal formula
- other anti-microbial, anti-viral herbs depending on what’s going on: cat’s claw, lemon balm, etc.
- sometimes collodial silver
- garlic
If you are interested in incorporating supplements in to your routine, PLEASE consult a qualified practitioner who can create a plan for you and instruct you on the correct dosing and brands. Not all supplements are created equal, and quality matters a lot for effectiveness and safety, as does dosing. Treatment plans should be tailored to the individual, and take in to account your lifestyle, diet, needs, goals and any other medications you may be taking.
Cutting out sugars and stress are HUGE for preventing colds/flus and keeping your body strong, especially in the winter months when we don’t see a lot of sun, and our bodies are under more stress.
Making sure you have time to re-fuel, rest and address any underlying issues that are bothering you allows your body to process stress easier and takes the burden off your system.
I am a HUGE fan of a daily meditation practice – there is a lot of research now showing it’s positive effects on the immune system, general health and well-being, and preventing chronic illness. If you are just starting out with meditation, you can check out apps like Headspace or Calm on your smart phone. Quick, easy, guided meditations that you can use throughout your day.
Adopting a general attitude of gratitude and a positive outlook/training your brain to focus in this direction play a big role in your physical health as well.
Our bodies often get sick when we need time to rest – it is our body’s way of telling us that things are out of balance. So for prevention, we can get in the habit of scanning our physical and emotional selves, and becoming aware of where we feel imbalanced, or drained. Allowing ourselves the space and time to rejuvenate in these areas can really build our strength and keep us healthy, even when others around us are sneezing or coughing!
For a personalized approach, contact us at Inner Sage Boston Acupuncture: (617) 281-8532, or email us.
Nicole Brown
Acupuncturist Brookline
Acupuncturist Needham
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