Keeping Winter Illness Away

Winter certainly is in full swing for the large majority of the country. We've been somewhat lucky in my neck of the woods with a just a few what I consider to be really cold days, in the 30's. For the most part though, the sun is out and it warms up in to the 60's. I know, like I said, we've been lucky.

With winter barking at our doors, you may be wondering just what you can do to keep those winter illnesses away. Well, I'm so glad you asked!

I recently came across an interesting article from CNNHealth. The article talks about women specifically asking the question why it is there are some women that never seem to get sick. They can be in large groups of people or in crowded planes with all that recirculated air and yet not catch a cold or somehow avoid the stomach bug that goes around the office or their home. So how do they do it? What's the secret?

There are several tips they elude to in the article including things like positive thinking to help fight off illness, using ginger for gastrointestinal problems, and garlic to boost immunity and reduce inflammation among others. Can you guess what the number 1 tip was?

If you guessed massage, you'd be right!

Why massage and how can it help you? Studies have shown that massage can reduce your blood pressure, lower your heart rate, and reduce stress levels all of which will help strengthen and build your immunity. Of course when you a strong immune system, you're less likely to contract those cold or flu bugs that are roaming around.

So why not give it a try? After all, what have you got to lose? Massage has soooooo many benefits, this is just another one to add to that very long list. Oh yeah, and if you're so inclined, throw a little yoga in there as well.