Just like certain foods support and strengthen your immune system, so does self care. Chronic stress, not enough sleep and poor gut health all contribute to a weakened immune system. These 4 simple practices will help you manage all of those – plus make you feel better. Give one, two or all of them a try and aim to make them a habit in your daily life.
MEDITATION
Meditation has been shown to help reduce anxiety and calm your nervous system helping to manage chronic stress and better sleep. I love the app Insight Timer – it’s free and has thousands of guided meditations. You can search by length of time and topics like anxiety, sleep or relaxation. Meditation doesn’t have to be perfect – you don’t need a special cushion or yoga outfit. You can do it anywhere that’s quiet and comfortable. And don’t worry if your mind wanders or is busy – mine does too – recognize it and then come back to the meditation. This is a practice that takes time and everyday will be different.
LEGS UP THE WALL
Shimmy your bum up against a wall and put your legs up there for 10 minutes. Benefits include:
- restoring tired feet and legs
- helping lower anxiety and stress
- relieving lower back tension
- improved digestion
- pelvic floor relaxation
- improved circulation
DRY BRUSH
Grab your loofah or body brush and gently brush your skin in a circular motion before getting in the shower or bath. Start at the soles of your feet and work towards your heart. Dry brushing helps naturally detox your skin (which is your largest organ) and stimulates your lymphatic system, where viruses and bacteria tend to hang out.
WALK IN NATURE
Walking has been proven to relieve stress and increase energy levels. Being outside in nature supports your gut health which in turn supports your immune system since and since the majority of your immune system is located in your gut. Even a quick 10 minute walk around the block will give your immune system some love.
