With severe cold and cold waves, temperatures have been dropping across most parts of Nepal. In such weather, common practices to protect against the cold include wearing warm clothes, using quilts or blankets, and warming up near fires or heaters. However, keeping the body warm only from the outside is not enough. It is equally important to keep the body warm and strong from within.
During winter, problems such as the common cold, cough, sore throat, joint pain, respiratory issues, and fatigue are more common. The body needs strength to cope with these conditions, and that strength does not have to be sought elsewhere.
It can be found right in our own kitchens. Here, Acupuncture Specialist, Dr Narendra Lamichhane, currently working at Gandaki Ayurveda Hospital in Pokhara, suggests the following tips to keep the body warm from within this winter:
1. Ginger and garlic: According to Ayurveda, ginger and garlic, commonly used spices in our kitchens, help maintain warmth in the body. They assist in regulating internal body temperature. Modern science also supports this. Compounds such as gingerol in ginger and allicin in garlic help boost metabolism, improve blood circulation, and generate natural heat in the body. As a result, consuming ginger and garlic in winter helps prevent sluggishness, maintain energy levels, and reduce the effects of a cold.
2. Turmeric: Turmeric is one of the most effective spices during winter. The curcumin found in turmeric helps reduce inflammation, strengthen the immune system, and fight infections. It is especially beneficial for joint pain, sore throat, and frequent colds common in winter. Drinking warm milk mixed with turmeric is considered one of the best home remedies for the cold season.
3. Jaggery: Jaggery holds special importance in winter. It provides quick energy, helps purify the blood, and reduces weakness caused by cold weather. This is why eating chaku and sesame laddoos during winter is a traditional practice. Jaggery helps maintain the body’s temperature balance.
4. Pulses and protein-rich foods: Pulses such as lentils, peas, chickpeas, horse gram, and beans provide energy and keep the body warm for longer periods. The protein they contain strengthens muscles and reduces cold-related weakness. Eating light yet nutritious food during winter is highly beneficial for health.
5. Spices: Spices such as cumin, coriander, black pepper, and cinnamon are particularly useful in winter. They improve digestion, generate warmth in the body, and help reduce gas and bloating. When used regularly in small amounts, these spices work like natural medicine.
What happens if the body is not kept warm from within?
In winter, many people experience cold hands and feet, a heavy body, and persistent fatigue. The foods mentioned above improve blood circulation, helping warmth reach every part of the body. Regular consumption reduces cold-induced sluggishness, keeps the body active, and strengthens immunity, protecting against seasonal infections. Besides food there are other things that should be done to keep the body warm from within and they are as follows:
1. Sunbathing and physical activity: Food alone is not enough to keep the body warm in winter. Sun exposure and physical activity are equally important. Morning sunlight in winter is like nectar for the body. Sunbathing helps the body produce vitamin D, which strengthens bones and boosts immunity, while also keeping the body warm. Light exercise, yoga, or walking improves blood circulation, helps maintain body warmth, keeps the body agile, and boosts energy levels.
2. Adequate sleep and stress reduction: The body needs more rest during winter. Adequate sleep helps restore energy and improve immunity. Stress can make the body feel colder and reduce motivation and energy for physical activity. Therefore, practising meditation, pranayama, or other calming activities is beneficial for maintaining good health during winter.
