Your body has an innate desire to be well and to function optimally.  If you don’t believe me, think about when you accidently scratch yourself or get a cut – your body naturally and automatically starts the healing process.

Your body works 24/7 to always optimize your health. By incorporating simple, easy routines into our daily life you can boost your immune system, which in turn will prevent you from getting common illnesses like a cold or the flu this season. 

In this post you will learn 5 easy techniques and strategies you can start applying today to boost your immune system and keep your body healthy, happy and strong.

1.       Get Plenty Of Rest

The pineal gland is located in the center of the brain and is sensitive to light. It produces melatonin and regulates your entire immune system. 

What is melatonin and what is its purpose? Melatonin is a hormone that helps you control your sleep patterns / cycles.

Can’t Sleep? Try These Suggestions:

•             The last hour prior to going to bed stop using all electronics.

•             Dim the lights in the house.

•             Listen to soothing music.

•             Take an Epsom salt bath.

•             Read a magazine or book (preferably no electronic devices).

2.       Stay Hydrated

Your body depends on water to survive. Every cell, tissue and organ in your body needs water to work correctly. This includes digesting food, lubricating joints and maintaining body temperature.

Tips To Stay Hydrated:

•             Keep a bottle of water with you during the day. When at your desk, going to meetings, driving in your car, etc.

•             Instead of purchasing bottled water, purchase a water bottle. It will save you money and saves the environment.

•             If you don’t like the taste of water, add some fresh lemon or lime juice in your drink. This also has another benefit in that it makes the water alkaline and helps with detoxification.

•             If you are feeling hungry have some water or tea instead. Sometimes when we think we are hungry, we are actually thirsty.

•             If you have trouble remembering to drink water put yourself on a schedule. Use a timer on your phone, drink water at meals and with snacks.

3.       Move Your Body

Get at least 30 minutes of gentle exercise each day. Exercises that help boost the immune system include: yoga, walking, nature hikes, qigong, tai chi, rebounding and biking.

The reason these exercises are great for the immune system is because they work with your lymphatic system.

The fluid that runs throughout the lymphatic system is called lymph. One of the jobs of the lymph fluid is to pick up bacteria and move it into the lymph nodes where it can be destroyed. These exercises work great to assist the body in moving lymph in the body.

Some rigorous exercise is ok, but too much can deplete the immune system.

4.       Eat Healthy, Natural Foods

Pass on the process foods! Eat whole, natural foods.

All plant-based foods, which includes vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds, whole grains and beans, contain “phyto-nutrients” (fight-toe-nutrients). Currently scientists have identified over 25,000 phytonutrients in plant-based foods. 

Phytonutrients create a strong body to help fight disease and keep your body working efficiently. Phytonutrients are essential for optimal health. A little trivia for you, there are over 285 phytonutrients in just one apple! This is why it is so important to eat plant-based foods every day to boost the immune system and get you in optimal health.

Tips For Eating Healthy:

·         Anything in a box, bag, can or container is processed, eat as little as possible.

·         Read labels – if you purchase something in a box, bag, can or container, find brands that contain very little sugar and chemicals.

·         Shop on the outside perimeter of the grocery store.

·         Use the 80/20 rule. For each meal your plate should be 80% plant-based and 20% animal-based.

·         In the winter months, make soups, stews, in general eat more cooked foods than raw.

5.       Manage Stress

The CDC (Council for Disease Control), the ACS (American Cancer Society) and the AHA (American Heart Association) have all stated that as much as 85% of all illness and disease is contributed to stress. That’s enough to stress anyone out!  It is important to learn and practice ways to manage stress.

Try These Techniques:

·         Meditation

·         Listen to soothing music

·         Take a walk in nature

·         Journal your thoughts

·         Talk to someone you can trust

·         Partake in physical activities

·         Practice breathing exercises

Author Bio: Cindy Bartz is an accomplished author, speaker and instructor, specializing in Yoga and Wellness. Download a digital copy of her book, “Boost Your Immune System”. Cindy is available to speak at Lunch & Learns, Workshops, Seminars and Conferences.

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Yours in health,

Brian