Winter Wellness
by Barbara Meza
Winter is in full swing and many of us are choosing to stay indoors where it is warm and cozy, with little daily physical activity. When we do venture outdoors, we are bundled up in coats and scarves, muscles tensed against the cold, our bodies showing little of the swinging arms and looser gait of summer.Before long, we start noticing seasonal dryness of the skin, throat and nose or thick phlegm and mucus. Within this dryness and thickness is reduced lymphatic circulation, leaving the body vulnerable to colds, flu and other infections. Giving our lymphatic system a boost and bolstering the immune response may be the ticket to a healthier winter.
The lymphatic system is a vital and often overlooked part of the immune system, composed mainly of lymphatic vessels and nodes located throughout the body. It has several tasks, including the absorption of fluids, the removal and transport of cellular waste, bacteria, viruses, fat and proteins, and the transportation of immune cells. When the lymphatic system becomes sluggish or stagnant, the immune system is directly impacted.
To help power up against colds and flu this winter, use these simple tools:
- Good nutrition: Choose warm, nourishing meals that incorporate nutritive herbs and spices.
- Proper hydration: Dehydration directly and negatively impacts the lymphatic and circulatory systems.
- Quality sleep: The body clears and repairs itself while we sleep.
- Regular movement/exercise: Muscular movement and respiration move lymph.
- Lymphatic Drainage Therapy: LDT boosts the body’s ability to detoxify and provide a strong immune defense.
Barbara Meza, owner of Conscius Vita and The Meandering Herbalist, located in Yardley, is a licensed massage therapist, lymphatic drainage therapist, cupping therapist and holistic health practitioner. Connect with her at 201-978-7335, ConsciusVita.com or TheMeanderingHerbalist.com. February 2016.
