When it comes to feeling great, our immune systems are the key. When you’re feeling rundown, you’re not only more susceptible to sickness but also more likely to feel mentally low. As the winter approaches, you’ll want to keep yourself mentally and physically healthy to enjoy the holidays. To keep yourself in tip-top shape, here are five easy ways that you can boost your immune system now!
1 . Get your vitamins
Getting enough vitamins in our diets is vital to boost the immune system. To reduce your chances of coming down with the winter flu, try to ensure that you’re getting enough Vitamin C. Eat plenty of oranges, strawberries, kale, and broccoli too. Around this time of the year, we often lack sunshine, so it can be a good plan to consume lots of Vitamin D based foods also. For Vitamin D, try foods like salmon, sardines, egg yolks, and mushrooms. Vitamin E based foods can act as powerful antioxidants to help combat viruses, so it’s a great move to add some avocados, squash, and sunflower seeds to your shopping list!
2. Reduce stress
Stress really takes its toll on the immune system, so any coping strategies that you have to combat stress will be helpful. Yoga can be an excellent form of exercise that helps the body and the mind to relax and unwind. Why not see if there’s a local class in your town? If you feel more comfortable, yoga can just as easily be practiced at home with a yoga mat and an online video. For stress-reducing supplements, try taking some Ashwagandha, a herb that’s grown in North Africa and India. You can purchase it in supplement form as a pill. Cannabidiol (or CBD oil) is another great way to aid relaxation. For a range of CBD based products, check out Vsavi for more information.
3. Ditch the bad habits
Those old vices of too much alcohol or smoking can really wreak havoc on the immune system. If you want your mental and physical health to be in great shape, try to keep those bad habits at bay. Some of us like a glass of wine now and then to relax, but the key is moderation. With New Year’s Resolutions in mind, ‘dry January’ could be a great immune-boosting addition to your list!
4. Perfect your sleep schedule
Getting enough sleep is a really easy way to boost your immune system. It’s recommended to get at least between 7 and 8 hours a night. If you’re someone who has trouble sleeping; try always going to bed and waking up at the same time. Putting a stricter regime in motion can often help your body to get into a pattern. As well as this, chamomile has long been praised for its benefits as a sleep aid. You can purchase chamomile in a supplement form or try a chamomile tea.
When you’re trying to boost your immune system the key is all about listening to your body. It’s easy to become overworked if you take on too much. Remember to practice self-care throughout the working week and use up all your holiday time!