Protecting Yourself from Seasonal Flu: Easy Tips for Everyone

When the weather changes it can create the perfect conditions for the flu to spread. The seasonal flu brings symptoms like fever, cough, and a runny nose that can stick around for about a week. But the fatigue might linger a bit longer, depending on your immune system.

In Ayurveda, this is all under the umbrella of Aganthu Jwara, and there are some simple steps you can take to prevent getting the flu, and heal should you catch it. Boosting your immunity by protecting your Agni, or digestive fire, is the key.

Here are some easy and practical tips to keep the flu at bay:

• Routine Matters:
  Create a daily routine with enough time for eating, working, sleeping, and resting.
• Fresh and Warm Foods:
  Eat fresh and warm foods. Avoid leftovers.
• Spice It Up:
  Include spices like ginger, turmeric, cumin seeds, and ghee in your cooking.
• Herbal Tea Magic:
  Drink herbal tea with soothing spices to boost digestive wellness and immunity.
• Warm Water Wisdom:
  Sip warm water often, avoiding ice-cold or carbonated beverages.
• Keep it Simple:
  When feeling feverish, stick to a simple diet according to your appetite. Herbal teas with ginger, basil, or bay leaves can be comforting.
• Easy Does It:
  Avoid strenuous physical activity and stressful situations during fever episodes.
• Bundle Up:
  Shield yourself from cold winds, use a mask, and cover your head and ears with a scarf to stay protected.
• Kitchadi Comfort:
  Embrace Kitchadi, a nourishing recipe that enhances immunity, especially during flu season.
• Daily Routines:
  Practice daily routines like oil swishing and applying a drop of oil in your nostrils to prevent bacterial or viral invasions.
• Herbal Help:
  Consider nebulization with herbs like basil leaves or Mexican mint, or essential oils like clove and mint. This helps improve lung capacity and protects from infections.
• Breathe Easy:
  Practice Nadishodana Pranayama and Kapal Bhati to clear your air passages and provide maximum oxygenation to your system.

With these easy steps, you can create a shield against the seasonal flu and keep yourself feeling your best. Stay well!

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Dr. Resmi V. Rajagopal, BAMS, MS (Ayurveda Gynec), PGDYN

Dr. Resmi is a versatile Ayurvedic physician from Kerala, India, specializing in women’s health and pregnancy care, therapeutic yoga, and nutrition.

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