As I write this blog post, I am looking out my window and it is snowing like crazy! Now that the colder weather is upon us big time, my thoughts are turning to ensuring my immune system is strong and healthy for the winter months.
The immune system takes a beating every single day! It has a big job, fighting off germs, environmental toxins, and other threats. So, it makes sense to give it all the help you can to make your immune system’s job a little easier, yes?
There are many factors that can strengthen your immune response, and some of them may surprise you. While a balanced diet and regular exercise are essential, these are just two of the effective ways you can maximize your own healing powers.
Here are some surprising things you can incorporate into your daily routine that will help your immune system be even more effective!
Laugh it Up!
Many moons ago, someone told me they believed I was the healthiest person they knew because I laughed so much. It’s true, I laugh a lot and always try to see the humour in things when appropriate.
A good laugh burns calories (sweet!), boosts your heart rate, and strengthens your immune system. One study measured increased levels of certain antibodies in adults after they watched a comedian on television. There are tons on Netflix so check one out tonight!
Avoid Overtraining
Don’t get me wrong here. I am definitely NOT saying you should avoid exercise or avoid challenging yourself. Daily exercise strengthens your body and mind. Overdoing exercise or overtraining can leave you weaker than when you started and expose you to injury. Exercise stresses your body temporarily which is a good thing. After exercise, your body needs the time to rest and recover in order to get stronger for the next session. However, overtraining won’t give your body a chance to recover and this can negatively impact your immune system.
Bask in the Sun (responsibly)!
Don’t throw out the sunscreen! You need it to protect you from skin cancer and premature aging. Small amounts of sunlight, however, can give you the vitamin D needed for healing.
Why is vitamin D important? In an article from “Ask the Scientists“, research suggests that vitamin D helps “regulate several important processes related to normal cellular repair and healthy immune response.” The article goes on to say that nearly all of our cells have vitamin D receptors, making vitamin D an important essential vitamin.
Play Some Tunes!
Lose yourself in your favourite songs! Listening to music is a constructive way to manage stress that may otherwise undermine your immune system. If you “get down and boogie”, all the better!
Respond to this post below and let me know what you are listening to right now!
Hang Out with Your Hommies!
Isolation can be hard on your mental and physical state, including your immune system. Social connections play a huge role in stress management. Check out my blog post, “Connection is Where It’s At” and then call up a friend for a walk or a coffee date. Better still, visit someone you know who may need to see a friend!
Supporting your immune system is key to your health and wellbeing! Try some of these suggestions and let me know how you do!
Until next time!
Yours in health and wellness,
Francine Alleyne (RHNP™)
Holistic Nutritionist, Registered Holistic Nutrition Practitioner™
Email: fran@francinealleyne.com
Website: http://www.midlifehealthy.com
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Instagram: @wellness.with.fran
DISCLAIMER: Please consult your healthcare practitioner if you are experiencing any symptoms. I am not a doctor. This post and anything else you find on my website is intended for informational, educational and self-empowerment purposes ONLY and is not intended to treat or diagnose any condition or disease.