Here are some tips on how to keep your holidays free of cold and flu.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, this flu season (2009-2010), there are more uncertainties than usual because of the emergence of the H1N1 virus or “swine flu,” making both severity and timing for the peak flu season uncertain.
Compounding concern is the scarcity of the flu vaccine in many areas of the country. With or without the vaccine, however, here are five easy tips that combine elements of Chinese and Western best flu avoidance practices that can help you and your family ward off the flu.
Wash your hands frequently. Lather and rinse while you sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice through (30 secs). During the flu season, consider giving a pat on the back instead of shaking hands with anyone who has a respiratory illness. Also avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
Protect your head and neck from wind with a hat and a scarf. While indoors, also protect your neck from strong airflows. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, this kind of protection boosts your wei qi (way chee), i.e. your immune system.
Use a Neti pot daily. In Chinese medicine, nasal passages are considered to be the doorway for many diseases. Use a Neti pot—a container designed to rinse the nasal cavity—or dip cotton swabs in warm salt water and swab your nostrils gently after first blowing your nose.
Get enough sleep and eat a healthy diet. Protect yourself from the cold and damp. Turn up your internal furnace. Try a bit of cinnamon, fennel, ginger, black pepper, cloves or garlic in your food. Drink hot herbal teas instead of iced water.
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