Staying Healthy During Back-to-School and Seasonal Changes

5 Tips for Strong Immunity and Steady Energy

As summer winds down and a new school year begins, families often experience a shift in routines, schedules, and energy. While this can be an exciting time, it can also be a period when our immune systems are more vulnerable. The combination of increased social contact, changing weather, and the stress of new routines can leave both kids and adults more susceptible to colds, flu, and other seasonal bugs.

At East West Integrative Medicine, we see this time of year as an opportunity to strengthen your body’s defenses and support a smooth transition into fall.

Why Immunity Can Dip in the Fall

From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, autumn is associated with the Lung system, which governs not only breathing but also our body’s protective Qi—the energetic barrier that helps defend against illness. Dry air, cooler temperatures, and seasonal stressors can weaken this protective layer, making us more prone to respiratory issues and fatigue.

5 Ways to Stay Healthy During Back-to-School Season

1. Prioritize Restful Sleep

Sleep is your body’s time to repair and restore. Aim for 7–9 hours each night, and keep a consistent bedtime. A calming wind-down routine—such as gentle stretching, reading, or an herbal infusion—can help signal to your body that it’s time to rest.

2. Eat Warming, Seasonal Foods

As the weather cools, shift toward cooked meals like soups, stews, and roasted vegetables. Seasonal foods such as squash, apples, pears, and root vegetables nourish your digestive system, which is closely linked to immunity in TCM.

3. Stay Active (But Listen to Your Body)

Movement keeps circulation and lymphatic flow strong. Try gentle exercises like walking, tai chi, or yoga. If you’re feeling run-down, opt for rest instead—overexertion can weaken your defenses.

4. Manage Stress

Stress impacts immunity. Mind-body practices like breathwork, meditation, or even just a few mindful minutes outdoors can help your nervous system stay balanced.

5. Explore Integrative Care

Acupuncture can help regulate the immune response, reduce stress, and support lung health—especially important in the fall. Regular treatments can keep your body resilient during cold and flu season.

Herbal medicine offers plant-based formulas tailored to your constitution. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, herbs such as astragalus (Huang Qi) and formulas like “Jade Windscreen” are used to fortify the immune system.

Functional medicine can take this a step further by addressing root causes—such as nutrient deficiencies, gut health, and inflammation—through advanced testing and personalized care plans.

The East West Approach

At East West Integrative Medicine, we combine acupuncture, herbal medicine, bodywork, and lifestyle guidance to help you adapt smoothly to seasonal shifts. Our goal is not only to prevent illness, but also to help you feel grounded, energized, and balanced throughout the year.

Ready to Boost Your Resilience?

If you or your family could use immune support during the back-to-school season, we’re here to help.

Book an acupuncture or functional medicine session today and step into the new season feeling strong and supported.

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