Have you been soaking up the summer sun? Summertime is filled with adventure, fun, and lots of outdoor activities. However, nothing can put a damper on your summer plans quite like a cold.
Surprisingly, summer colds are just as common as those in the winter months, but can feel even more annoying when you'd rather be outside enjoying the weather.
At Asheville Integrative Acupuncture, we believe in holistic health and are here to help you stay healthy all year round. Here are some essential tips to avoid those pesky summer colds.
1. Boost Your Immune System
This seems obvious, but the key here is preventative care! A strong immune system is your best defense against summer colds. Upkeeping healthy habits and routines can make a lasting impact.
Here are some healthy habits that keep your immune system happy and strong:
Eat Nutrient-Rich Foods
Incorporate plenty of fruits and vegetables into your diet, focusing on those rich in vitamins C and E, such as citrus fruits, bell peppers, and leafy greens. These nutrients support immune function and help ward off colds. We have talked about eating seasonally before and highly recommend visiting a farmer’s market to get fresh, local, in-season produce. Asheville has amazing farmer’s markets multiple days a week. Check them out!
Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough water is crucial for maintaining good health, especially in the summer heat. Proper hydration helps your body function optimally and supports your immune system. I highly recommend adding electrolytes into your water, Ultima is a brand I use often.
Get Enough Sleep
Let’s face it - we cannot function properly without good sleep! Quality sleep is essential for immune health and gives our body the down time it needs to reset. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night to give your body the rest it needs to stay strong.
2. Practice Good Hygiene
Good hygiene practices are important year-round but especially during summer months when you're often around more people.
Wash Your Hands Regularly
Frequent hand washing with soap and water helps prevent the spread of germs. Be especially mindful after being in public places or touching shared surfaces.
Avoid Touching Your Face
Germs can enter your body through your eyes, nose, and mouth. Avoid touching your face to reduce the risk of infection.
3. Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes
Going from the hot outdoors to an air-conditioned indoor space can stress your immune system.
Moderate Air Conditioning Use
Keep air conditioning at a moderate temperature to avoid the shock of a drastic temperature change when coming in from outside. You can also create a gradual change in temperature by turning off the AC for a bit before going outside and running a fan before turning the AC back on right away.
#4. Incorporate Acupuncture into Your Routine
You knew this was coming, right? The power of acupuncture is amazing at maintaining overall health and preventing illnesses like summer colds. Acupuncture can help:
Strengthen Immune Function
Acupuncture helps boost your immune system by promoting circulation and balancing energy (Qi) in your body. Regular sessions can help you stay healthy and resilient against infections.
Reduce Stress
Stress weakens the immune system, making you more susceptible to colds. Acupuncture is an effective way to manage stress, promoting relaxation and overall well-being.
Improve Sleep Quality
By targeting specific points, acupuncture can enhance the quality of your sleep, ensuring your body gets the rest it needs to maintain a strong immune system.
5. Stay Active and Enjoy What Asheville Has To Offer
Asheville, NC offers a wealth of outdoor activities that can keep you healthy and fit. From amazing hikes to our excellent greenways, this city is perfect for hiking, biking, running, and exploring.
Exercise Regularly
Regular physical activity boosts your immune system and improves your overall health. Hiking, biking, and yoga are great ways to stay active in Asheville's beautiful surroundings. Asheville is a city full of fun fitness classes and experiences - try dance fitness, pilates, barre, crossfit, rock climbing, or boxing classes!
Get Fresh Air
Spending time outdoors in nature can increase your overall well-being. Sunshine and fresh air do wonders for our health! Take advantage of Asheville's parks and trails to bask in nature’s medicine.
Are you ready to feel your best in the summer?
Avoiding summer colds involves a combination of healthy habits, good hygiene, and mindful practices. At Asheville Integrative Acupuncture, we're here to support you with holistic approaches like acupuncture that enhance your immune system and overall health.
Don't let a summer cold ruin your plans—embrace these tips and enjoy a healthy, vibrant summer in Asheville, NC.
Contact Asheville Integrative Acupuncture by texting/calling 828-739-0345 today to schedule your session and keep your health on track this summer! See you soon!