in my mind's zen garden

6 Ways To Prevent Catching A Cold

As I write this I feel like I might be catching a cold, which is the most obvious reason for writing this post, so wish me luck while I try not to get sick by acting on the following advice:

1. (Lave Sus Manos) Wash Your Hands

During the cold and flu season, it’s a good idea to wash your hands several times a day. Specifically after coming into physical contact with other people, like after shaking hands, etc. If you are unable to wash your hands, definitely don’t inadvertently place your fingers in your mouth or rub your eyes.

2. Eat As Healthy As You Possibly Can

This means eating more fresh fruits and vegetables (and less junk food and fast food) to help boost your immune system. Although dark chocolate has a lot of antioxidants, try to avoid or minimize your consumption of chocolates and sweets during the cold and flu season.

3. Get Plenty Of Rest

The common cold and flu often hits us hard during the winter months. This is a time when everyone should be in hibernation mode. After all it’s winter. So getting a good night’s sleep is extremely important. And it does seem like a natural time to slow down and take it easy. Even professional long distance runners and triathletes slow down their training during winter months.

4. Avoid Stress

Well, many of us will have a hard time totally avoiding stress, as our work and our family life tends to add stress to our lives anyway. But, it’s important to reduce your stress level as much as possible. Naturally, reducing any kind of stress to your mind and body will definitely help in fighting off the cold or flu.

NOTE: I wrote an article a while back about stress: 10 Ways To De-Stress Your Life

5. Take Herbal Remedies

Studies have shown that the herbal remedy Echinacea, whether in supplement form or a tea, may actually help prevent the common cold. But I’ve also read a lot of good things about Goldenseal, which is a good herb to take if your are already sick or if you feel you are on the verge of getting sick. Teas in general (like Chamomile Tea) are good for the body in that you are getting more fluids into your system, which leads us to our next bit of advice.

6. Drink Plenty Of Water

Everyone knows that the human body is made up of more than 70% water, so it makes perfect sense to take your recommended 7 to 8 glasses of water a day. And the best way to do that is to drink fresh bottled spring water. And fluid intake is important, but avoid sodas or any drink with too much sweeteners.

And that pretty much wraps up my personal tips and suggestions for helping to prevent the common cold. Good luck to you and don’t catch that cold!

Posted by Randomguru | Comments (View Comments)

Tags: cold, flu season, germs, scratchy throat, sickness, sniffles, stuffiness