Is there anyone out there who doesn’t have the flu right now? Yep, it’s hitting us hard this year. But don’t just lie down and take it! We are so pleased to have Dr. Heather Manley, a noted Naturopathic doctor, give us her expert advice on staying healthy during cold and flu season. Find out how you may just sidestep the worst of it, and if you do succumb to that dreaded virus, Dr. Manley’s got some great tips to help get you back to the “healthy-you” faster!

Staying Healthy: Rock Solid Immune System

1. Bring on the cold…water         

Hydrotherapy literally means “water therapy”.

Father Sebastian Kneipp, a 19th century monk, is said to be the father of hydrotherapy. He believed the healing properties of water optimize health by helping the body eliminate waste. There are many different types of hydrotherapy treatments but a favorite at-home application are hot and cold compresses.

why: Hot water causes blood vessels to dilate or open and increases blood flow, allowing the body to remove waste from tissues. Cold application initially creates contraction or slight closure of the blood vessels, which pushes stagnant blood away, making room for renewal. Alternating hot and cold water increases blood and lymph circulation which removes toxins/unwanted wastes out of the body and allows for optimal nutrients absorption and distribution.

how to: After every hot shower, end it with a blast of cold water. Or a family favorite is the Magic Socks Treatment. Watch the video on Magic Socks here.

2. Be hydrated.

Quenching your thirst with fluids is important in keeping your body hydrated and flushing out toxins. If plain water doesn’t excite you, try infusing with some citrus fruit like oranges and lemons or try brewing some herbal teas – kids love all the flavors available.

why: During the winter many people tend to forget to drink water and become dehydrated quite fast. Treat yourself and family to a favorite herbal tea during the day; the herbs are packed with antioxidants that feed the body’s cells and the hydrating effects are strong.

3. Take 5.

This may seem daunting to many people but once a 5 minute break habit is established, people quickly realize how much better and more productive they are. Find a time during the day where it’s possible to begin and set the alarm on your phone. When the alarm goes off, stretch or close your eyes and just allow yourself some peace.

why: Stress in the body has numerous negative effects; one being on the immune system. Finding quiet ways to release stresses, can make a profound difference in your overall health.

You’re sick: Fight back

1. Take a herbal supplement: pill, capsule or tincture.

why: Supplements will help strengthen your immune system and not suppress it. Echinacea, elderberry are a few favorites.

how: Click here to learn more suggestions on different brands and combinations.

2. Go to bed asap!

why: One day of rest may prevent 5 days in bed, feeling miserable.

3. Take your supplements even if you feel better.

why: Most people stop taking their supplements right when they feel better. When people do this, there is a greater risk of getting sick again. To over come this, my suggestion is a 7 day plan: the first 3 days be aggressive with recommended dosage, and the last 4 days take half the recommended dose.

It is always best to visit your doctor to guide you with the best treatment plan suitable for you. If symptoms do not get better after a day or two, it is important to visit your doctor again.

Be well,

Heather Manley, ND