I love the crisp air of autumn. It feels like such a refreshing relief after the high heat and humidity of summer. But this season can also take a toll on women’s health. Many of us feel extra fatigue as we adjust to standard time. Shorter days and less sunlight can bring on anxiety or seasonal depression. And of course, the holidays are right around the corner, which can add stress. On top of it all, cold and flu season arrives just as we’re spending more time indoors, increasing our risk of exposure to airborne illnesses.

I’m all about prevention – or at least reducing my risks. Here are my tips for you to stay healthy this cold and flu season.

1. Wash Your Hands

In 2020, I was surprised when the CDC advised everyone to wash their hands for 20-seconds. Here’s why:

• I have been washing my hands in the same form as surgeons since I was in high school. I was in a pre-med program.
• Have you noticed that back-to-school time is during the cold and flu season? Each year, I spent my first week instructing my new students how to wash their hands properly. They washed while slowly singing “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star.” When I taught pre-school, hand washing was a great time to practice “The Number Rock.”
• Since my daughter was a toddler, I taught her that the first thing we do when entering our home was to wash our hands – especially after touching carts in the grocery stores.

Proper handwashing, often, is a great way to lower your risk of catching the cold or flu. Because hands quickly show signs of aging, I highly recommend using a moisturizing hand soap. You definitely should follow up each handwashing with a hand cream. The JAFRA Mani Must Have Bundle is a luxurious way to exfoliate and pamper your hands. This is essential during this dry season.

2. Eat Foods That Fuel Immunity

Continue your healthy eating throughout autumn. It’s a great support for your immunity. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Soups filled with vegetables are great for staying healthy. I add ginger and turmeric for extra health benefits. Bonus: the broth keeps you hydrated.
• Root vegetables are colorful and full of vitamins.
• Citrus fruits have plenty of Vitamin C. Try a variety of oranges (navel, valencia, blood), tangerines, mandarins, and grapefruit (but not if you are taking medication for hypertension.
• Lean protein
• Leafy greens are great all year. Just before my soup is done. I like to add kale to it.
• Nuts such as almonds and walnuts are a great protein snack

3. Prioritize Restful Sleep

The power of sleep is unique. It restores our mental health, our bodies, our brain, and our skin. It also keeps our immune system healthy. This is important during the cold and flu season. We need 7 – 9 hours for optimum results.

Build a solid sleep hygiene. Try winding down 30 – 60 minutes before bed by powering down screens, lowering the lights, and doing something relaxing. If you struggle with sleep, you will find my Sleep Well Naturally course beneficial.

4. Lean Into Natural Protection

Although I use them all year, I am more mindful of dōTERRA On Guard line during the cold and flu season.

My On Guard Go-To’s:

• Foaming Hand Wash: Cleans and softens without drying, but with immunity support
• Toothpaste
• Cleaner Concentrate: Great for keeping door knobs, light fixtures, faucets, and more free of germs. I use it all year for everyday cleaning – floors, bathroom, countertops, and even my carpet shampooer.
• Chewable Tablets: Perfect immunity booster
• Of course, the Essential Oil Blend itself: Protects against environmental and seasonal threats. I put a drop in a warm mug. Then I add the dōTERRA Lemon oil and a teaspoon of honey. It’s so good. I also diffuse On Guard to freshen the air and get an energizing lift.

Another natural protection the dōTERRA Foundational Wellness powder to support your body with clean, vegan, and gluten-free formula delivers essential macro- and micronutrients that the body relies upon to support daily energy levels, immune system function, gut health and digestion, liver function, hormone function, and brain function.

5. Flu Shots

I definitely don’t want to be hypocritical. I do not get the flu or pneumonia shots. At least, I haven’t yet. As I have more birthdays, I am sure I will consider it. I keep my immune system healthy with the previous tips I shared. I also exercise, which helps a lot. I have not had the flu in more than a couple of decades now. Although, I think I may have had walking pneumonia last winter.

However, if you have any autoimmune conditions or any health conditions, I would recommend the flu shot. I take my mom and my husband for their annual shots. I always encourage women to make the choice that feels right for their health needs, in consultation with their doctor.

One Last Thing

If you struggle with seasonal anxiety and depression, please seek help from a professional. Start with your primary care physician. The remedy may be as simple as a prescription-strength Vitamin D. Personally, I use the dōTERRA Adaptiv Essential Oil for moments of anxiety. But, please, always have a conversation with your doctor first.

Let’s Wrap This Up

Cold and flu season doesn’t have to bring you down. With smart prevention, nourishing habits, and natural support, you can feel stronger, healthier, and more radiant all season long.

Which of these tips will you lean into first? Share your favorite cold-weather wellness habit with me. I’d love to hear it!

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Purple Essence By Evelyn, your partner in aging well and achieving your best self.