With the arrival of colder, rainier weather and significant day-night temperature shifts, our bodies become more susceptible to bacterial and viral invasions. One tiny misstep, like forgetting your umbrella or not dressing warmly enough, can invite an unwelcome cold. Soon, you're beset with congestion, a sore throat, and general unease—none of which is pleasant. But fear not! Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers time-tested wisdom on bolstering your defenses and fighting off these annoyances with a little acupressure know-how.

Acupressure: A Holistic Approach to Cold and Flu

The philosophy of TCM is deeply intertwined with the idea of balance and harmony. It advocates for the use of natural, non-invasive methods like acupressure to improve health and wellness. Acupressure involves the stimulation of certain points on our body to enhance its self-healing capabilities.

• 尺澤 (Cubit Marsh - chǐ zé): Located on the thumb side of the elbow tendon, the Cubit Marsh Point/5) is a crucial part of the lung meridian. Massaging this point can help reduce heat and phlegm in the lungs, relieving chest discomfort and enhancing lung health.

• 合谷 (Union Valley - hé gǔ): The Union Valley acupuncture point, part of the Hand Yangming Large Intestine Meridian, is found approximately an inch and a half from the junction of the thumb and index finger. It is a critical point for treating facial pain, sore throats, and other discomfort symptoms. Applying moderate pressure on this point can alleviate cold symptoms like congestion and headaches.

足三里 (Leg Three Mile zúsānlǐ): The Zusanli acupuncture point, located about three inches below the kneecap, is part of the Foot Yangming Stomach Meridian. Traditional Chinese medicine considers it an essential point for strengthening the body and boosting immune function. Its stimulation can help improve gastrointestinal discomfort symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Dietary Therapy: Nourish and Protect

Prevention of cold and flu doesn't end with acupressure. Diet plays an integral role too.

• Foods that warm the lungs—like white fungus, lily, yam, pears stewed with Fritillaria, silver ear lotus seed red date soup, or hot sugarcane juice with a few slices of licorice—can moisturize the lungs and suppress coughs.

• Dark foods, including mulberries, purple yams, and eggplants, are not only good for the kidneys but also benefit the lungs.

To protect your respiratory system, minimize intake of cold foods, sweets that induce phlegm, inflammation-causing fried foods, and hot and dry foods.

Herbal Supplementation: Yin Chiao

On top of acupressure and diet, TCM also encourages the use of herbs to boost immunity. A well-known Chinese herbal formulation, Yin Qiao can be highly effective in warding off cold and flu when taken at the onset of symptoms or as a preventive measure when exposure to viruses and bacteria is anticipated.

With these three pillars—acupressure, diet, and herbal supplementation—TCM offers a comprehensive approach to strengthen your immunity and ward off common colds and flu. Embrace these tips, take good care of your lungs, and sail through the cold season with resilience and vitality!

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new herbal supplement.