Immune Boosting Tips

First, let’s all just take a moment and breathe! It’s a little chaotic out there so please don’t buy into it. The more negativity you absorb the lower the immunity and that won’t help you fight off these nasty little viruses sooooooo, with all that being said, I thought I’d share some simple lifestyle tips that will boost your immunity!

Food and supplements play a big part in elevating your immune system, which I will address in a separate blog post, but there are simple lifestyle practices that are so beneficial and the results are astounding.

SLEEP SLEEP SLEEP!!

Consistent restful sleep of 8-10 hours a night can boost your immune system by boosting your T Cells. T Cells are lymphocytes that participate in immunity and fighting off unwelcomed diseases, viruses and nasty infections. But let’s go even further into the Circadian Rhythm. Our circadian rhythm is a natural process that repeats every 24 hours. When this rhythm is consistent, our body is at it’s highest defense especially when we are sleeping. Your body at rest will heal but even more so when sleeping soundly and keeping that rhythm going. When this rhythm is disrupted it can lower your body’s defense.

If you have issues with sleep please consult your doctor or holistic practitioner.

Tips for Better Sleep:

• Cooler temps-lower that thermostat
• Disconnect from all electronics 2 hours before bed
• 15 minute meditation before bed
• No eating after 7:00pm
• Drink herbal tea such as Sleepy Time or Yogi Caramel Bedtime

HYDRATION

Yes they do say that the body is 70% water but regardless of the percentage our body is counting on hydration and electrolytes for optimal performance. Water is necessary for survival but with our immune system we need plenty of it to filter out toxins and dead cells from our blood stream and organs. Following a protocol of 6-8 glasses per day is great but you can also divide your body weight in half and drink that amount in ounces daily. Another important factor is our electrolytes. We need a balance of sodium and potassium for cell function and well as optimal organ function. If you sweat with exercise then it’s important to keep those electrolytes balanced. I am not one to recommend gatorade because of the sugar, food coloring and chemicals but I love this yummy electrolyte powder. I use a scoop daily in 8 ounces of water.

DRY BRUSHING

I’m sure some of you are familiar with dry brushing but for those of you who aren’t, let me tell you that this is a good one!! Dry brushing is an easy way to detox the body by stimulating the lymphatic system thus eliminating fluid build-up and toxins. A powerful line of defense is our skin and bushing our skin removes dead cells and makes way for healthy new cells. You can do this daily before your shower or bath. It’s very soothing and you will love it!!

Dry Brushing:

• Use a natural bristle brush like this one
• On dry skin starting at the feet move in long sweeping motions towards the heart
• Brush each area several times going from feet to legs
• Do circular brushes on the abdomen
• Follow up with hands and arms
• After brushing bathe normally

MEDITATION

If you’ve never meditated then you have to try this! Meditation can be 5 minutes sitting quietly and focusing on your breath or it can be however long you like. Meditation improves brain function and reduces stress which in return boosts the immune system. This is such a simple practice to add to your daily routine.

EXERCISE

Yep. You knew it already. Exercise. Some of us aren’t into it so much like ME! However, exercise can be a 20 minute walk a few times a week and that’s right up my alley! Exercise can also boost T Cells that fight of bacteria so get out there and strut your stuff!!

LAUGHTER

And finally………don’t forget to laugh!!! Not only does laughter increase feel-good endorphins, it also decreases stress hormones which improves your body’s defense against illness. So again I say, don’t forget to laugh! Watch a sitcom. My favorites right now are The Goldbergs and Mom. Nonstop laughing!!

Sticking to a daily routine and adding these tips is a solid way to boost your immunity. Take it one step at a time and don’t give up!!

Cheers to your best life!

Jennifer