Nobody likes getting sick, but we don’t ever think much about it until we finally feel it coming. Then we find ourselves suddenly stocking up on vitamin C and drinking herbal tea, trying all the home remedy tricks we learned from our grandmothers. However, the best way to fight off illnesses is to prevent them in the first place by doing simple things each day that boost the immune system.
So, what are a few simple things you can do to support your immune system?
Get Enough Sleep
Getting enough quality sleep each night is so essential for a healthy immune system. Try to get the recommended 7-8 hours of sound sleep each night, which may take some practice to build up to. Studies have shown that lack of sleep significantly weakens the immune system. If you have trouble falling asleep, set up a good nightly routine to relax and prepare for sleep. Put your screens away at least an hour before bed or for your time when you are in front of a screen, get some blue light protecting glasses.
Eat Your Antioxidants
Our bodies need the right fuel to fight off infections. Antioxidants clear out free radicals from the body, which can otherwise cause inflammation and weaken the immune system. Vitamins A, C, and E are rich in antioxidants and can help regulate the immune response. Make sure you’re eating your vegetables and fruits to get these essential micronutrients, and if you can’t get enough through your diet, consult your physician and consider taking a high-quality multivitamin.
Stop Stressing
Stress not only affects your mental well-being, but it also takes an enormous toll on your physical health. While acute stress is sometimes useful for those short bursts of adrenaline, most of us are dealing with chronic stress. This wreaks havoc on your body and can lead to adrenal fatigue, chronic low-grade inflammation, and a weakened immune system. If you’re feeling stressed out, try getting to the root of the problem and fixing that. Take some time to relax and unwind after a stressful day so that your body can recover.
Exercise, But Not Too Intensely
Exercise is so vital for overall health, but it specifically benefits the immune system by helping to circulate your immune cells throughout the body. It also lowers inflammation and reduces stress levels, which is key for a robust immune system. However, some studies have found that overly intense exercise, especially without enough recovery time, can have adverse effects on your immune health. So, exercise, but give your body enough time to recover as well.
Practice Good Hygiene
While it is essential to have a strong immune system that can fight off infections, the best way to protect yourself is to practice good hygiene. Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face if you haven’t. If you’re out and aren’t able to wash your hands, using sanitizer or a hand wipe can help if you find yourself in a sticky situation.
Yoga – Boost Your Health & Immune System
There are few exercises as powerful as yoga. The practice of yoga offers you the ability to improve your physical, mental and emotional health. Yoga is truly a whole body exercise that can do more for you than you may realize.
It has been discovered that a regular yoga practice can potentially improve sleep quality, posture, muscle tone, balance, mental clarity, and more. It has also be found to aid weight loss and reduce stress when practiced consistenly. When combined with a healthy lifestyle, yoga can improve the overall health and immunity of anyone who does it on a regular basis.
This is an interesting time we’re living in, and boosting the immune system is at the top of everyone’s priority list. Along with these daily tasks, loading up on veggies, drinking copious amounts of fresh water, and lessening your body’s load of environmental toxins can give you the strong immune system you’re longing for.
Leave A Comment