Winter is upon us and with it cold and flu season. How to prevent illness is a major concern. No one wants to suffer through a cold or the flu. Today, it is widely known that germs are spread by contact. Not so before the 20th century. Only in 1846 did Dr. Ignaz Semmelweis develop the Germ Theory, which determined that disease could be spread through contact with contaminated hands. For those who are so inclined, there is a great program on the Science Channel about the Germ Theory.

Becky Patterson, Agency Director for Extension of You Home Care, tells us that “grocery store carts are one of the worst spreaders of germs. People sneeze and touch things with germs then place their hands on the cart handle. Then we put our hands right on top of that. You should always disinfect the handle before using a shopping cart.” Luckily, most stores nowadays provide disinfectant wipes just for that purpose. Being mindful of the potential germs lurking on that grocery cart handle can go a long way to prevent illness.

The CDC says, “Handwashing is like a “do-it-yourself” vaccine.” They provide a helpful list of activities after which hand-washing is recommended.

Aside from disinfecting grocery cart handles, simply washing our hands is one of the most effective ways to combat germs. Washing our hands needn’t be just a chore though. Yoga therapist Carol Krucoff recommends looking at it as a ritual that incorporates the yogic principle of “Saucha.” Krucoff explains that Saucha means purity. She encourages viewing hand-washing as an opportunity to mindfully cultivate Saucha. She recommends this practice:

• Stand tall in front of a sink and take an easy breath.
• Wet your hands, apply soap, and rub your hands together to make a lather. Scrub them well—getting the backs, between the fingers and under the nails.
• Continue rubbing your hands for at least 20 seconds—the time it would take to hum the “Happy Birthday” song twice. Or, recite a 20-second prayer, devotional song or mantra.
• Rinse and dry.