Shall we rename it the “season of exhaustion”? Just when nature is telling us to go inward, slow down and conserve our resources, we humans decide it’s the time to overbook our social calendar and add another set of to-dos to our already crazy schedules.

So, let’s take a moment to remember some health-preserving measures that could save us from being down and out with some illness this winter.

Mama used to say, and it’s still good advice:
– get to bed at an early hour almost every night
– eat with the season: stews, soups, squashes, warm foods
– keep your neck and head covered when outdoors
– wear socks or slippers instead of walking on a cold floor
– wash your hands frequently, and cough into your elbow instead of your hands

Nowadays, I would add:
– use Airborne or very affordable Chinese herbal formulas to keep your immune system ahead of the invaders (virus, bacteria)
– visit your local acupuncturist for regular tune-ups (an ounce of prevention, they say)

Enjoy the urge to be quiet and alone, if it comes. This is seasonally appropriate. If your tank feels empty, don’t push to do that one more commitment – learn to say “no”!

Happy Winter to You!