Here are 5 simple things you can start today to boost your immune system!
- Reduce Stress
Stress and our immune system do not get along. When we are under stress, our immune system is weakened, making us more vulnerable and likely of getting sick. For example, it is common to get sick around the time of travel. Whether it’s the stress of preparing or the climate change, our immune system might take a hit. Reduce stress by finding time to take care of yourself, such as any of the following ways below.
- Socialize (while practicing social distancing)
Humans are social beings. Plus, strong emotions such as fear and loneliness are stressful, especially during these times. As mentioned above, stress weakens the immune system. So, find joy in talking and connecting with your loved ones – your family, friends and even pets! Check in on colleagues and see how they’re doing.
- Sleep
Sleep is the time when our body repairs itself. We spend so many hours of the day awake and moving about that we need to give our brain and body the time it requires for rest. Not clocking in enough hours leaves us at a greater risk of getting sick because our vital organs are not recovering. According to the Chinese Body Clock, there are certain hours of the day that our vital organs are at peak functionality. For example, our liver cleanses and recovers between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m. However, this can vary by person.
- Exercise
When we exercise, we release a “feel good” chemical in the brain called endorphins. Endorphins boost our mood and in return reduces stress. In addition, it increases alertness, focus and concentration. Working out or going for a short walk is all it takes!
- Eat Healthy
Our body responds to everything we eat. When we eat well, we feel good, and when we don’t, we tend to feel sluggish and tired. It’s important to ensure you’re getting the vitamins, nutrients and even antioxidants that help to build and sustain a well-functioning immune system. Consuming foods high in Vitamin A, Bs, C, E & Zinc such as fruits, vegetables, eggs and seeds contribute to strengthening the immune system.
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This website is provided only for informational purposes and not intended to be used to replace professional advice, treatment or professional care. Always speak to your physician, healthcare provider or pediatrician if you have concerns about your own health or the health of a child.
Hi Samantha,
As I was reading this article, I can resonate with all of your tips! When I socialize, workout, eat healthy, and sleep well I tend to be in a better mood. It’s interesting that our vital organs restore themselves at certain times of the day. I noticed the Chinese Body Clock that you have attached to this article tells us that our organs are restoring themselves all day. I wonder what the correlation between sleep and the restoration of these organs is when it’s said that they are restoring themselves all day long, even when we are awake. Do you have a link to more information about this? I find this to be so interesting!
Thank you for another insightful article 🙂
Hey Kaitlin,
I’m always reminded while writing these articles just how easy it is to achieve such simple health benefits. E.g., sleep more, reduce stress, go for a walk. But unfortunately, we take these simple things for granted sometimes and push ourselves to unbelievable extremes, putting our health at risk while doing so. I’m glad to have been able to build in more time for these simple things and realize that I need to put them first.
You can learn more about the Chinese Body clock here: https://www.healthline.com/health/chinese-body-clock#about. There’s a chart that talks about the different time intervals.
Thank you, sincerely, for your continuous interest in my articles. Much appreciated 😊