The Importance of Maintaining Healthy Body Temperature

Maintaining warmth and healthy circulation plays an important role in overall wellness. Normal human body temperature averages around 97.7-98.6°F. When the body is exposed to cold environments, the blood vessels and muscles activate to generate heat. In extreme cold exposure, people may experience confusion, slurred speech, loss of coordination and unconsciousness.

Chronically cold hands and feet may indicate poor circulation, stress, lackofmovement, insufficient sleep, inadequate nutrition, or underlying health conditions.

While some studies claim that cancer cells grow at exactly 95°F, there is firm evidence that healthy circulation, proper sleep, regular exercise and stress management all support healthy immune fonction and overall health.

In traditional eastern medicine, warmth is associated with vitality and healthy circulation of Qi (vital energy) and blood. For centuries, practitioners have used moxibustion and herbal medicine to support warmth, circulation, digestion and energy. Moxibustion involves warming specific acupuncture points using processed Mugwort herb (moxa) to support circulation, digestion and energy. Ginger, cinnamon twig, and angelica root are also commonly used to support digestion, circulation, and recovery from cold patterns.

Everyday habits that support healthy circulation include exercise, balanced diet, sleep, stress management, hydration, dressing for the weather, and warming foods such as soups and ginger tea.

—Former Professor Yeung H. Kwon, L.Ac, OMD, Ph.D Optum HCC Leisure World, Seal Beach

Yeung H. Kwon