Unusually cold weather is affecting most of the United States, so I thought it was the perfect time to talk about your closet’s most essential item for staying healthy this winter: a scarf.
In my younger years—my 20s, 30s, and 40s—I wouldn’t have considered wearing a scarf. I was tough, a Navy SEAL, and thought I could brave the wind without a second thought. However, my outlook changed when I started exploring Chinese medicine.
Why a Scarf is Your Closet’s Most Essential Item
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, exposure to cold wind—particularly on the back of your neck—can disrupt your body’s energy, leading to fever, chills, and illness. Cold wind is regarded as the most detrimental chi in nature. There’s a key acupuncture point at the back of your neck, known as Du 14, or Dazhui 14, where all of your energy channels meet. This area is especially susceptible. If cold wind infiltrates it, you may wake up feeling feverish and experiencing chills, alternating between hot and cold sensations.
To avoid spending the winter in bed, just remember to wear your closet’s most essential item, a scarf, when you go outside. The simple act of covering your neck with a scarf can help prevent seasonal sickness and keep you feeling well throughout the colder months.
Take action now – your health is worth it.