Imagine if you had a secret weapon that helped you survive the upcoming dreaded cold and flu season? Astrology can be just that. By understanding the element that your Zodiac sign belongs to, you are able to access vital information on how to best support and nurture yourself through the winter months.

Here’s how it works. Every Zodiac sign belongs to a fundamental element; Fire, Earth, Air or Water, each possessing unique attributes and differing requirements that contribute to your overall well-being.

Choose the element that corresponds with your Zodiac sign below and discover the key to unlock optimal wellness for your sign, this winter.

FIRE

Aries, Leo, Sagittarius

Fire signs are abundant in drive, energy and motivation. So, it’s imperative that you keep the fire stoked once the cold sets in. Curling up on the sofa with a tub of ice-cream, watching reruns of The Bachelor may be tempting but your body needs to generate heat, so strenuous activity is the way to go. Boxing, Zumba and running are all great options to maintain your fitness and immunity. Don’t overdo it though, as your element can be prone to strain and injury. Your usual epic powers of recuperation and excellent digestion should see you survive the winter months like a boss, provided you don’t burn the social candle at both ends. Too much partying will take it’s toll, leaving you with an over-acidic system that could lead to fever and inflammation. The trick for fire signs, is to burn warm and bright, whilst avoiding burn-out.

EARTH

Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn

Earth signs enjoy moving their body in steady, rhythmic movements. Tai Chi, jogging and lifting weights at the gym will fortify your circulatory system, avoid lethargy and keep you feeling strong. Ensuring regular exercise over the winter months is vital in assisting the body’s detoxification processes. Your channels of elimination are prone to sluggishness and as a result, can become clogged with impurities if your lymphatic system seizes up from lack of movement. Ideally, a short juice fast or dietary detox is undertaken in spring. However, your earthy sign may benefit from a cleanse during winter, in order to elevate energy and boost stamina. Frosty mornings and chilly evenings don’t exactly inspire outdoor activity but connecting with nature through gardening, beach walks or taking the dog for a walk in the park, is exactly what you need to facilitate the best and healthiest version of you.

AIR

Gemini, Libra, Aquarius

Air signs are the polar opposite to fire signs, on the Zodiac wheel. And whilst fire signs are urged not to over schedule their social calendar, air signs are encouraged to maintain personal connections and engagements. You thrive on communication and feel suffocated and depressed if dreary grey weather keeps you from socialising. Air signs can be susceptible to lung complaints, so it’s important that you protect your respiratory health. Power walking in fresh air will revitalise you but avoid icy winds at all costs. Your digestive tract is prone to excess wind, so eat nourishing foods that are easily digestible. For many air signs, mental activity skyrockets when physical activity decreases. With the risk being an over-active mind, leading to insomnia and the exhaustion that inevitably follows. Prioritising a calm state of mind through pranayama (breath work) or meditation is the key to good health for your cerebral air element.

WATER

Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces

Water signs optimise their health when they are moving in sync with the tides of life. Attempting to swim in the opposite direction that life wishes to carry you, causes worry, stress and a desire to withdraw, which in turn creates havoc with your immune system. Learn to let go and let flow, especially during the winter when your resistance is already compromised by an influx of bugs and viruses. Water signs can be prone to catching colds and suffering from excess mucous. Therefore, immune strengthening herbs such as echinacea, astragalus and garlic act like magic bullets that shoot down threatening aliments before they have the chance to develop into something more sinister. Nurture your liquid element with hot baths, eucalyptus steam inhalations or spending time near the ocean. Although cold weather often suppresses thirst, boosting hydration will restore your body’s natural equilibrium.

By Natasha Weber @astrotash