School has begun! “May the odds be ever in your favor.” This quotation may have dark connotations but those with kids in school feel like they are actually struggling through “The Hunger Games” as they move from earaches to coughs and colds, to strep to stomach bugs.

How can acupuncture help you and your kids navigate the petri dish of school? Acupuncture strengthens the immune system in several ways:

1. Acupuncture enhances the circulation of blood and energy. This provides for the improved function of immune-enhancing cytokine cells that are part of the body’s immune response. Better blood flow ensures quicker response to attacking pathogens.
2. Acupuncture reduces inflammation, which weakens the immune system. A balanced inflammatory response supports overall health.
3. Acupuncture is known to reduce stress and improve relaxation. When we are relaxed, we make better food choices, get more sleep and enjoy healthier activities. The trope about sitting on the couch with a pint of ice cream to recover from a tough day is based on real life.
4. One of the best results of acupuncture treatment is the balancing of energy, contributing to a feeling of well-being.

Children are great candidates for acupuncture treatment. They respond well to protocols and typically require shorter treatments. Bring them in for stubborn colds and respiratory issues.

Many of our grandmothers’ theories about what keeps us healthy are tenets of Chinese medicine.

Dress for the weather. Wear appropriate outer clothing. Enough with the shorts when you are not coming home from the gym.

In traditional Chinese medicine, the back of the neck is the entry point for cold pathogens and external wind. Wear a scarf.

A good night’s sleep allows recovery from the stresses of the day. The body can reset, sweeping the scene clean. Adequate sleep is part of maintaining a strong immune system.

Eat for the season. Foods with warm spices and herbs like cinnamon and ginger, hearty soups, sauerkraut, squashes and sauteed greens. Leave the iced coffees for summer and sip hot tea.

Take lessons from the COVID pandemic. Wash your hands frequently, stay home when ill, and cover your sneezes.

More questions? Contact me at Morning Light Acupuncture: sayacupuncture@gmailcom. www.morninglightacupuncturenj.com, (908) 400-2314.

Wishing you all a happy and healthy new year.

Dr. Sara Youner owns Morning Light Acupuncture in Springfield, New Jersey.