by Dr. Mao Shing Ni, L.Ac., D.O.M., Ph.D.
As summer ends, despite smoldering temperatures throughout different regions, the season of cold, flu, and viruses officially kicks off. With children returning to school and adults back in the office after vacations and travels, the risk of contracting viral infections increases. Fortifying our immune system and adopting preventive measures is essential. Drawing on and integrating the wisdom of both Eastern and Western medicines, we can develop a holistic approach to enhance our immunity and prepare for the challenges of the upcoming season of viruses.
Here are five tips that I practice that will help increase your protection against contracting viruses:
1. Sleep
Sleep is critical for immune system repair and defense. Studies show that missing adequate sleep for three consecutive nights can depress your immunity substantially. Moreover, for those who think getting vaccinations will fully protect you, think again. Studies show that a lack of sleep the night before vaccinations may significantly diminish the vaccine's protective properties! I aim for 8-9 hours of sleep each night to ensure optimal immune function.
2. Hygiene
Now that COVID-19 seems to be in the rearview mirror, although periodic spikes may still occur, many people have stopped hygiene practices acquired during the pandemic. These include frequent hand washing, proper cough etiquette, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals. Yes, I know you are tired of it. However, I still wear masks in crowded indoor public facilities like markets, airports, planes, train stations, trains, buses, sports games, and performances, which has gone a long way to prevent picking up unwanted viral passengers!
3. Herbal Support
Herbal remedies such as honeysuckle and forsythia, also known as yinqiao, and other immune-supporting herbs, are tried-and-true remedies with thousands of years of use to prevent and treat colds and flus. Specially tailored immunity boosting formulas containing these herbs can be used as a preventative and at the first symptom of a cold or flu. Other formulas with multiple species of mushrooms such as reishi and others also support your immune and energetic function. Contact us for a consultation to boost your immunity with natural Chinese herbs.
4. Stress
Daily stress management techniques are essential for preventing stress from suppressing your immune system. Try mind-body practices like meditation, qi gong, tai chi, and yoga consistently to help rebalance your central nervous system and prevent a sympathetic or survival state from depleting your defenses. Choose a practice that appeals to you.
5. Nutrition
Align with the principles of Chinese medicine by consuming warm and nourishing foods to help maintain a harmonious balance in the body and ward off colds. Foods like ginger, garlic, scallions, cinnamon, anise (the active ingredient of Tamiflu), curry made with turmeric, edible mushrooms, including shiitake, maitake, turkey tail, and lion’s mane varieties, as well as chicken broth, all support immunity. Learn more about food as medicine from my book, The Tao of Nutrition, or our Cookbooklet for easy, yummy recipes.
By embracing these holistic principles and practices, we can enhance our immunity and prepare ourselves for the challenges posed by the season of viruses. A balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, proper hygiene, stress management, and mind-body practices are all essential components of a comprehensive strategy that will make the upcoming fall and winter healthier and happier for you and your loved ones!