We are living in extraordinary times and it’s very easy to feel fear. The future is uncertain as we navigate this new virus and the weeks ahead may be challenging. When we aren’t in control, we feel vulnerable and when we feel vulnerable, we feel fear.
However, if we start to take back our power, we can change how we react to our circumstances. There is much that is out of our control, but there is still a lot we can do to not buy into the fear and empower ourselves to stay strong and healthy.
Building up your Immune system and changing your mindset will do this.
Start by addressing your diet. This is not the time to indulge in alcohol to drown your anxiety, tempting though it may be. Alcohol is inflammatory and will depress your immune system as it affects the functioning of immune cells. A diet high in sugar and processed foods has been shown to hamper the ability of white blood cells to fight infection so a healthy diet with plenty of whole foods, fruit and vegetables will make a huge difference.
Have lots of Water. About 60% of our body is composed of water. All our cells and organs need water to survive. Increase your intake of water to also assist in flushing out toxins. Warm drinks such as tea can also be of benefit. Teas that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties include Chamomile tea, Slippery elm, Licorice root, Tumeric or Green tea. You can also add Manuka honey, which is a very potent antibacterial, antiviral and an anti-inflammatory agent.
Sleep is vital for the replenishing of all your cells, especially your T-cells or lymphocytes so take measures to improve your sleep. Try and be in bed by 10pm, especially if you are feeling tired or a bit unwell. Rest during the day if you’re tired. Listen to your Body. Don’t fight through your fatigue. It will only diminish your ability to fight the bugs.
Exercise regularly even if it’s for short periods of time. Exercise increases the circulation of antibodies and white blood cells and being out in the sunshine, increases our production of Vitamin D. A lack of Vitamin D increases our susceptibility to infection.
Supplements such as Vitamin C and D, Zinc, Probiotics and herbs such as Astragalus root, ginger, echinacea, elderberry, garlic, ginseng and oregano all strengthen the immune system.
Address the Fear. This is perhaps the most important for Fear causes Stress. Stress results in inflammation which significantly depresses your immune system. So what measures can you take when the whole world seems to be living in fear?
Stop watching the news! It’s important to be informed but checking once or twice a day is enough and preferably avoid watching it on tv as television always sensationalises everything and feeds the global fear.
Meditate, journal, spend time in nature. An exercise I am doing each morning is a Loving Kindness practice where I am choosing to send love and compassion out into the world. So what does this mean and how can we do it?
Take time each day to shut your eyes and imagine a beautiful warm golden light of love and compassion surrounding yourself. Really feel this love fill up every part of your body. Then imagine this same golden light filling up your family and friends. Surround them in your love. Lastly feel this beautiful warm golden light spreading out and filling up the world. Our love is limitless, so feel the warmth and compassion being sent out to all of Mother Earth. This healing love replaces fear. It only takes a few minutes but if we all do this, it is incredibly powerful.
Emotional Freedom Technique/EFT or Tapping is also a great tool to reduce fear and anxiety. There are many videos on YouTube that you can follow. Nick Ortner and Brad Yates are two that you could look at.
Lastly Reflexology! Reflexology is a powerful modality to strengthen your immune system and reduce stress. Work the Vietnamese Facial points to boost your immune system. Book in for a treatment to give yourself the benefit of staying healthy and relaxed and know that by taking these measures your are feeding your Body in the best way you can.
Warmest wishes,
Judy xxx
Link to Facial Reflex points for immune system https://solevitality.com.au/immune-system/
Please note that extra cleaning measures are being taken at the clinic. Surfaces are being disinfected after each client and hand sanitiser is available. I will also be using a face mask for Facial Reflexology treatments. Let me know if you have any concerns or questions.
References: www.draxe.com/probiotic-foods, www.ncbi.nim.nih.gov, www.organicfacts.net, www.articles.mercola.com, www.medicinenet.com/vitamin-d-deficiency.
Disclaimer: Please note that all information in this article is the opinion of the author and obtained through her research and knowledge and the above references. It is not meant to replace medical advice and a medical opinion should always be obtained for any health condition.