Keeping Healthy as the Weather Changes

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids such as water, herbal teas, and broths. Staying hydrated helps your body fight off infections and can ease symptoms if you do get sick. There is nothing like a bowl of homemade chicken soup, but I will say when I feel that way I look for comfort soup, like Campbell's chicken noodle.  Mind you, the salt content may be high. 
• Rest Up: Listen to your body and rest as much as possible. Sleep supports your immune system, and getting enough of it can help your body fend off a cold.  This includes taking a nap if you feel tired - listen to your body, it's trying to tell you what it needs.
• Wash Your Hands Regularly: This is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after being in public places, blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.  Keep a hand sanitizer nearby when feeling this way, and also a moisturizer to keep your hand from drying out.

• Eat Healthily: Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Foods high in vitamins C and D, as well as zinc, can support your immune system. Examples include citrus fruits, leafy greens, bell peppers, berries, nuts, seeds, and legumes. Stay away from dairy as it is mucus forming.
• Stay Active: Moderate exercise can boost your immune system. Even a daily walk or gentle yoga session can help, even if you don't feel like it - but do avoid strenuous exercise.
• Manage Stress: High stress levels can weaken your immune system. Engage in activities that reduce stress, such as meditation, reading, taking baths, or other relaxation techniques.  I like guided meditation the best.  Remember there are some Crystals listed above that can help you with that as well.

• Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol Consumption: Both can compromise your immune system, making it harder for your body to fight off infections.
• Consider Supplements: Some people find that taking vitamin C, zinc, echinacea or elderberry supplements can help support their immune system. However, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement.
• Keep Your Surroundings Clean: Regularly disinfect commonly touched surfaces in your home and workplace to reduce the risk of cold transmission.  This is not something you want to share, or have revisit.
• Humidify Your Environment: Dry air can irritate your respiratory tract. Using a humidifier in your home, especially during winter, can help keep your nasal passages moist and more resistant to viruses.  You may even consider adding some quality essential oils to the water, such as doTERRA Easy Air.

Remember, these tips can help support your immune system and may reduce the severity or duration of a cold, but they're not guaranteed preventatives. To this date there is no one "silver bullet" to heal us from a cold.  We have to experiment and find out what works best for us personally.  

Note that if you're feeling very unwell or your symptoms persist or worsen, it's important to consult a healthcare professional.