It’s that time of the year again - and cold and flu season is well underway!
Nobody likes being sick during winter. Cold and flu season can be especially frustrating when it leads to taking time off work, school and social commitments, often affecting the whole family.
So - what steps can you take to prevent your chances of getting a cold this winter, naturally?
Keep reading for 5 tips and natural remedies to help protect your body and boost your immune system during this cold and flu season!
Wash your hands frequently
It’s important to remember that both colds and the flu are caused by viruses, and not bacteria. You can only become ill after coming into contact with people or things contaminated with the virus.
With this in mind, washing your hands frequently during the cold and flu season will help to prevent you from contracting the virus both at home, in the workspace or out in public.
Keep a bottle of hand sanitiser in your bag on the go, and make sure you have a good hand wash in your bathrooms at home. We love the doTERRA On Guard range as a gentle alternative to harsher soaps for sensitive skin.
Diffuse anti-viral essential oils
Certain essential oils have antiviral properties that may help to support a healthy immune system.
Some of the best anti-viral essential oils include:
- Clove
- Eucalyptus
- Tea Tree
- Lavender
- Lemon
Create your own cold-preventing essential oil blend or use a diffuser to disperse individual oils daily throughout the home, particularly in the areas in which you spend the most time like bedrooms and living spaces.
You can also create your own roller blend to take with you during the day, or apply undiluted to the soles of your feet for daily use.
Reduce your alcohol and sugar intake
It might not sound like much fun, but alcohol and sugar consumption can actually suppress our immune system, making it much harder for our bodies to fight off infections. Try to cut down on your alcohol and sugar intake during the winter months, to give your body the best chance of fighting off the cold and flu.
Get enough sleep
Clocking in an appropriate amount of sleep each night is another way to boost your body’s natural immune system. Try heading to bed a little earlier during the winter months to ensure your body is well rested.
If you struggle with insomnia or sleeping problems, consider adding a drop of lavender oil to your pillowcase or exploring the benefits of a Himalayan salt lamp to help promote a positive sleeping pattern.
Exercise more
Regular exercise not increases your circulation, but also reduces stress - 2 things that can improve your body’s immune system. It might be a little colder during the winter months, but try to get your body moving for at least 30 minutes a day if possible!
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