I’m still in shock, as I am sure many people are, over the current health scare going on worldwide. I find it fascinating that a microscopic organism can shut down the planet, but it basically has. We are to avoid exposure to other people by distancing ourselves and remaining holed up in our homes so as to stop the virus from spreading. One can feel helpless in this situation, but you aren’t helpless. You have more power than you know to get or keep yourself healthy during this crisis.
Now is an excellent time to start some immunity boosting activities to help your immune system ward off this virus if you come in contact with it. Unfortunately, our planet is overrun with unhealthy people whose immune systems are comprised. That is one reason why this virus is spreading so rapidly. When the immune system is compromised you are more likely to get sick from any virus, not just Covid-19. I remember back in 2009 when the swine flu swept through the town where I was living. In my classroom of 25 students, about 2/3 were out sick, including me. This was before I understood what it meant to be healthy and what I needed to DO to be healthy. I wish I knew then what I know now.
Below I have made a list of several things you can do to boost your immune system. This will not guarantee you will not get the virus and, of course, you should be following government guidelines to ensure your safety and the safety of others. However, as you sit at home and need something to do, try one of these easy options which can really help your body in the long run.
EAT BETTER
This goes without saying because eating a diet full of nutritious plant based foods will always be the better choice for your health. Did you know that 80%-90% of our immune system comes from our gut? So, putting healthy things in there is the best recourse. I have heard from many reliable sources that this virus, as well as many others (swine flu, MERS, SARS) came from our interactions with animals who were being raised for food or in a market being sold as food. What if our habit of eating animals was the cause of all of this hysteria? It is definitely food for thought. Needless to say, eating plants, as far as I know, never caused humans to catch a deadly virus.
Cruciferous veggies like cabbage, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kale, and cauliflower are so healthy and can really give your body an immunity boost. They should be a regular part of everyone’s diet. Not sure how to prepare them? Take this extra time you have to do some research and find new and interesting ways to prepare these gems. You might breathe new life into these veggies and they just might become a regular staple in your kitchen. As always, get organic and/or non-gmo veggies. Veggies that are not organic have been sprayed with chemicals that impair our immune system. Fermented foods like sauerkraut and kimchi really help the gut. Turmeric and ginger are great immune boosters. Try making a tea with fresh ginger and/or turmeric or simply nibble on them.
While binge eating or stress eating might be what you want to do right now, try to reduce your intake of sugar and processed foods. Again, this should be a given if you want to maintain a healthy body. Don’t let the stress of our current situation cause you to turn to the unhealthy foods. I understand that grocery aisles are cleaned out of this stuff. It is so sad that people are grabbing the very foods that are NOT going to help them ward off this virus. Instead, try looking in the produce section of your supermarket for the healthiest snacks — organic of course. Nuts and seeds are also better choices.
SHOW KINDNESS AND GRATITUDE
Tensions are running very high today in our unprecedented climate of fear and worry. Fear suppresses our immune system, so let’s not give into it. When you show kindness to someone you significantly help yourself, as well as the person being helped. Wherever we help others, we feel better. Feeling better lifts our spirits and makes us happier. Gratitude is so powerful no matter what the situation. Angry at the events of the day? There are still so many things you can be grateful for — time off from work, a much needed respite, extra time with the kids or parents…whatever it is, verbally tell the universe what you are grateful for and your body will benefit.
TURN OFF THE TV AND LAUGH
I don’t know about you, but I can only take a few minutes of the constant media coverage of Covid-19. It makes me angry and sad. So, turn it off. Just turn it off! Don’t make yourself angry, upset, or fearful. This just comprises your immune system. Remember, you have the power! Better yet, turn on a funny movie and laugh. The cliche “Laughter is the best medicine” is true, but it can also be the best preventative medicine. Laughter is a great way to feel better immediately and your body will appreciate it! Plus you will at least forget the events of the day for a little while.
TRY SUPPLEMENTS
The days are gone when we can get all our nutrition from our foods. We have stripped our soil of the minerals it used to have because of our current farming practices. While I would love to get all the vitamins and minerals I need from my food, I know that is not always possible. Supplementing with the following will really up your game as far as boosting your immune system: Vitamin C, Vitamin D (more on that below), magnesium, zinc, and selenium. These were taken from a recommendation of the International Society of Orthomolecular Medicine. I have been taking Tangy Tangerine from Youngevity which provides me with all of these in one tasty drink. CLICK HERE for more information. FYI — I do not benefit in any way if you decide purchase this.
GO OUTSIDE
The sun is one of the best ways to get our Vitamin D. The sun and fear of skin cancer has scared so many people that they either avoid it or slather on so much sunscreen they don’t absorb any of this wonderful vitamin. It only takes 10-20 minutes a day of time in the sun, uncovered and without sunscreen, to get your vitamin D fix. Even though I have had skin cancer on my nose, I still plan to revel in the sun each day this spring and summer. In addition, while you are outside, breathe the fresh air and feel the Earth under your bare feet if the temperature allows. Connecting to the Earth is so beneficial because it grounds you and brings a natural peace. So many people remain disconnected to our great Mother. Take this time to quiet yourself in nature even if it’s just outside your back door.
JUMP OR BOUNCE
Jumping and bouncing is a great way to get your lymphatic system draining the toxins out of your body. You don’t need anything special to do this. CLICK HERE to read my blog about bouncing. It is such an easy and quick way to gain better health. So get off the couch or recliner and do it!
TAKE CARE OF YOUR ENERGY BODY
We have both a physical body and an energy body. BOTH need care to boost your immunity and maintain good health. Here is a quick 5 minute routine that is easy and can it do wonders for your energy body. Why not try something new in these trying times while you have extra time on your hands? CLICK HERE for Donna Eden’s 5 Minute Energy Routine. I did this routine daily while I was a classroom teacher and it really helped me power through those difficult days AND I stopped getting sick as often. I have shifted into a new routine which I can teach to anyone who is interested. CLICK HERE to learn more and send me an email if you would like more information. Just click the “Contact me” link above.
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