by Steven Sonmore, L.Ac., Dipl. Ac. (NCCAOM)
Cold and flu season in Minnesota can hit hard—especially when you’re already run down from stress, poor sleep, travel, or a busy schedule. In Chinese medicine, people tend to get sick when the body is depleted and less able to adapt to weather changes and circulating viruses.
Acupuncture and Chinese medicine focus on strengthening resilience—so your system is less likely to “catch what’s going around,” and can recover faster if symptoms start.
Many people wonder how they can stay well this winter, considering the onset of the flu and the fear of a possible influenza epidemic. Fortunately, acupuncture and Chinese medicine provides proven steps toward preventing illness and maintaining good health in cold weather.
We hear about so many people catching the flu – but in reality it is only a portion of those exposed to a virus that get sick. Why? According to Chinese medicine’s teachings, our bodies get sick when we are in a weakened state. It is only when our immune systems are weakened and our bodies are out of balance that we are vulnerable to sickness. So why not increase your resistance to getting ill naturally?
Acupuncture originated in China between 3,000 and 5,000 years ago. It corrects imbalances in the body’s energy systems that cause illness. Practitioners of Chinese medicine identify Qi (pronounced “chee”) as the life giving energy that needs to flow freely through the body for good health. Integrated with a wise lifestyle, Chinese medicine can help prevent illness.
Here are 5 practical tips for cold & flu season:
1) Move your body daily (even lightly).
Gentle movement supports circulation and lymphatic flow. A short walk, light stretching, tai chi, or yoga can be enough—especially if you’re consistent.
2) Protect your neck and upper back from wind/cold.
In Chinese medicine, the back of the neck is a common entry point for “wind.” On cold or windy days, cover the neck/chest area and keep feet warm and dry.
3) Prioritize sleep and downshift stress.
When sleep is short and stress stays high, recovery capacity drops. If you need a simple reset: slow nasal breathing for 5 minutes before bed + lights down 60 minutes earlier.
4) Eat in a way that supports recovery.
Favor warm, cooked foods and simple proteins; reduce refined sugar and heavily processed foods when you’re exposed or starting symptoms. Hydration matters—especially if you’re congested or running a low fever. Eat more fresh, organic foods and less processed food.
5) Use acupuncture proactively (and early).
Many patients use acupuncture seasonally to support immune function and resilience. If you feel the “first-day” signs (scratchy throat, chills, fatigue, head pressure), getting treated early often helps shorten the course and reduces the intensity.
When should you schedule?
Consider coming in if you:
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feel early cold symptoms (fatigue, chills, scratchy throat, congestion)
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get frequent colds every winter
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have lingering cough, sinus pressure, or post-viral fatigue
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notice stress + poor sleep seems to precede getting sick
Related reading
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Cold prevention with Chinese medicine and acupuncture
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Treating colds, allergies & flu with Chinese medicine
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Conditions we commonly treat at our Edina clinic
Ready for immune support in Edina?
If you’d like seasonal prevention care—or you want support at the first sign of a cold—call 952-831-8080 or use our online scheduling to book.
In health,
Steven Sonmore, L.Ac.
www.orientalmedcare.com
P.S. Don’t wait until you are sick to get treated. Acupuncture & Oriental medicine is preventative care. In the right hands, acupuncture can boost your resistance to colds & flu. Call us at 952-831-8080 or go to our contact page and ask about our Immune Booster Pack.
