’Tis the Season of Rest: The Wonder of Winter (Part I)

Winter is upon us, and although the true winter season suggests a quieter, restful time of “comfort and joy,” most women’s calendars groan under the load of appointments and festive activities. Usually the holiday spirit begins around fall harvest and continues energetically throughout the winter months, with contemporary technology and progress taking us farther and farther from the simple basics of nature’s rhythms.

Let’s slow our pace, catch our breath, and observe the wonder of this season. In God’s creation, the earth sends her energy deep into the soil in order to be protected and nourished until sprouting time in the spring. Longer nights and shorter days beckon us indoors for warmth, nourishment, and protection. This season brings much needed rest and regeneration for both the soil and our body and soul.

Think for a moment of all the winter provisions we make to ensure a safer, warmer season: storm windows, snow tires, and oil changes; sprinkler systems shut off, down jackets and wool sweaters for the kids, flannel linens on the beds, and extra quilts nearby. Now, ask yourself, “What do I do to prepare my own body for this cold, harsh season?”

Today we will be looking at one of three ways we can prepare, provide, and prevent during winter’s long visit.

In the winter’s cold, damp weather challenges even the strongest immune system. Fending off cold and flu symptoms begins with some simple immune-boosting steps.

Ideally, we should be doing some preventive measures every day, such as drinking eight glasses of water, eating a protein rich breakfast, getting eight hours of sleep, exercising regularly, and eating a simple winter diet of nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables and lean meats. Most women that I know don’t live by an ideal schedule or routine. When we work long hours, eat on the go, or scrimp on sleep, winter afflictions may attack our stressed bodies.

God designed our bodies with the ability to wage a counter-attack on viruses and bacteria. As uncomfortable as the process is, there is a reason for the runny nose, increased temperature, and muscle aches. The immune system is doing its job of excreting “unfriendly” bacteria or viruses from the body. Nature’s garden provides some of the best natural remedies to bolster our bodies’ defenses.

1. To prevent bacterial and viral growth try: Garlic, onions, and shiitake mushrooms.
2. Solutions for mucus-dissolving are: Lemon and grapefruit (Both are high in vitamin C and have antiseptic).
3. Chase away unpleasant symptoms with these herbs: elder berry (eases coughing), astragalus, (Chinese herb that promotes energy), eucalyptus (clears stuffy nose and head) and echinacea (boosts immune system and fights bacterial and viral infections).

So if you want to stay strong and healthy this winter season, add some of these natural remedies to boost your body’s defenses.