As the weather cools we find ourselves more susceptible to coughs and colds.  Though it can be hard to avoid coming into contact with these germs, there is an easy way to expel them from our body every morning, giving our immune system more than a fighting chance.  Here’s my tip on what I have found to be most effective at keeping the lurgies away.

It’s the Ayurvedic principle of Spit, Brush, Scrape.  (Just think S-B-S). 

As soon as you wake up:

1. Spit out the contents of your mouth (before you swallow any saliva)
2. Brush your teeth
3. Scrape your tongue (You can buy tongue scrapers from most health food shops.  You could also use a spoon face down on your tongue, but it is far easier with a tongue scraper).

This clears all the bacteria from your mouth which your body has brought up overnight, rather than ingesting the bacteria again with your first mouthful of drink or food.  You might like to add oil pulling to your routine after S-B-S if you have the time, to draw out any more bacteria.  (Coconut or sesame oil are both good for this. I find the coconut oil also gives the teeth a protective coating if you are going to follow with any acid like lemon juice or vinegar).

And now, to kick start your digestion, have a cup of warm water.  You can add lemon and ginger if you wish, but the most important thing is that it is warm.  In fact, Ayurveda recommends you never eat or drink anything cold as it dulls our agni (digestive fire), but this is even more important in the cooler weather. 

This whole routine takes less than 5 minutes, so why not give it a go to give your body a better chance at fighting those lurgies!