The Best TCM and Acupressure Tips for Keeping Kids Healthy in the Fall

 In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), autumn represents the beginning of the Yin Cycle where people and plants begin to slow down and turn inward for the coming winter. It's time to replace routines that served us in the vibrant and warm summer months with those that support our health in the cooler months. The Yin cycle brings about more cold and damp weather and less sunlight. For many kids, autumn can be filled with coughs, colds, asthma and other respiratory illnesses. With just a few simple changes to support your child's body, it can make them less susceptible to illness.

The "Lung Network" is  Associated with Autumn

The Lung network is responsible for the flow of our breath, the circulation of Qi (pronounced chee), and protects us from getting sick. If the Lung Network is out of balance, it will make a person more susceptible to coughs, colds, respiratory issues, illness, and dry skin, especially during the fall. If you're child is prone to asthma attacks, check out our article on treating asthma with acupressure.

For this reason, it is important to take extra good care by eating nourishing foods and keeping our bodies adequately warm and hydrated.  

In Cold Weather Be Sure to Avoid Letting Your Child:

• Wear sandals and shorts
• Get cold feet by not wearing warm socks
• Sit on cold surfaces like cement or tile
• Drink too many cold or iced drinks
• Eat too many cold or raw foods
• Eat too many oily or sugary foods

Support Your Child's Body in Cold Weather By:

• Having them wear a hat and scarf when outside
• Dressing warmly enough for cold weather
• Drinking room temperature water or warm drinks like tea
• Eating warm seasonal dishes

Acupressure Points to Support the Lung Network

Keeping Your Kids are Warm Enough During Outside Play

When playing outside, even in cold weather, some kids get really hot and refuse to wear a hat or jacket. How do you know if they're dressed warmly enough? Put your hand on the inside if their chest and upper back. If they're body is warm in these regions, they're dressed warmly enough. But, if this area is cool then it's time to add another layer or jacket.

Add Foods Rich in Vitamin A to Your Family's Diet

 Fall vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach and kale can help purify and protect your body and are packed with beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A. Vitamins A and D are important for immune health, especially in the fall and winter. A great way to balance out the yin energy within your body is through eating warm seasonal dishes. In addition, include more sour or fermented foods into your diet such as sourdough bread, yogurt, ginger or sauerkraut to add probiotics that support the gut and your immune system! Sources: https://www.acufinder.com/Acupuncture+Information/Detail/Enjoy+the+Energy+of+Fall+Autumn+and+Traditional+Chinese+Medicine “Practical Chinese Medicine” Penelope Ody   This blog post has been shared on: Thank Goodness It's Monday by Nourishingjoy.com Simply Natural Saturdays by Pistachioproject.com Let's Get Real Friday Party by Jugglingrealfoodandreallife.com