How to fight the flu season...

The seasons are changing in most places around the globe in November, some transitions being more extreme than others.  Here in Samui the monsoons have hit hard this last month.  Although we are still in shorts and t-shirts here in Thailand, it is the equivalent of winter and everyone is falling ill with colds and flu. 

Whatever your climate, a change in the season hits us all with pressure changes in the air, the temperature shifting and perhaps a rain shower here and there.  This is a time where we have to pay attention to our diet more than ever, our bodies are so susceptible to illness and we are more likely to be huddled in dark places together, with the windows pulled tightly shut (a breeding ground for colds and flu).

So, how do we boost our immune systems in times of change?

We all think of orange juice immediately and load up on Vitamin C tablets, which is a great start.  However, there are loads of other brilliant ways of getting our immune systems impenetrable.  The best one is prevention of your immune system getting low in the first place. The best thing to do is start to get your body strong as you go along. If you were working too hard or partying too long as the winter approaches you are not in a good position to fight back.

Keep Strong As You Go Along - The Tips To Keep You Topped Up.

1. Here comes the green smoothie again, try and get one in every day of the year and your body will always be in a position of strength nutritionally.

2. Super foods.  Spirulina, goji berries...the list goes on. An immune BOOST INJECTION as you approach the cold.

3. Sleep.  We need healing sleep, under no circumstances miss out.  

4. Nourishing grains. Quinoa, brown rice, lentils.  Mix in with soups, dahl, stews and broths. Power food.

5. FRESH FRUIT and VEGGIES in all shapes and forms, some raw, some steamed. 

6. Supplements.  If you work too hard and your diet is lacking, then there is a place for supplementation.  

7. Laughter.  Keep it light, don't let winter blues get you down.  Feeling low is also the immune system's enemy.

8. Stay wrapped up.  I know this sounds obvious, but your Mum was right, keep that neck covered up.  This is maintenance for all seasons, hot then cold is never good, whatever the weather.  Air-con, central heating, it's all playing havoc with our bodies as we go in and out.

9. Balance.  We need an equal balance of work, play, rest, relaxation and spirituality in our lives.  If this is out of whack...good health is hard to achieve

10. Set boundaries at work.  Try to keep your work life balanced - over working is a recipe for a weakened immune system.

Josie