Simple Ways to Decrease Stress and ELEVATE IMMUNE FUNCTION

Elevated levels of stress and anxiety wreak havoc on our health and depress our immune function. There are so many simple ways to continue to support your immune system.

Here are a few of our favorites:

1.Take a Bath: Fill your tub with Epsom Salts -which are loaded with magnesium and sulfate, both known to decrease stress and stimulate detoxification pathways. Add your favorite essential oil for the added benefit of aromatherapy. Don’t have a tub? A warm foot soak, filled with Epsom Salts has the same effect. Fill a pot or plastic tub with water, pour in your salts, add oils and soak your feet.

2. Spend Time in Nature: Thank you, Mother Nature, for sending us these sun-drenched days lately that lend themselves to getting outside. There is no better way to de-stress than breathing in the fresh air and immersing yourself in nature. Go for a walk, eat lunch at the beach, sit outside with a blanket and breath in the oxygen. It does wonders for your body, mind, spirit, stress level and immune function.

3. Practice Deep Breathing: Taking regular, deep breaths has a profoundly positive effect on the immune system. Here’s an easy breathing technique that’s easy to incorporate anytime of day:

-Sit or lie flat in a comfortable position.

-Put one hand on your belly just below your ribs and the other hand on your chest.

-Take a deep breath in through your nose, and let your belly push your hand out. Your chest should not move.

-Breathe out through pursed lips as if you were whistling. Feel the hand on your belly go in, and use it to push all the air out.

-Repeat 10 times.

4. Movement: Have a dance party, get out for a walk, do some jumping jacks. Regular movement enhances your immune system. If you don’t already have a regular movement routine, now is a great time to start one. How does your body like to move? Find ways you enjoy exercise - it makes it easier to stick with it when you're doing something you enjoy.

5. Rest: Proper rest and a good night’s sleep boost the effectiveness of specialized immune cells. Make sure you go to bed at a reasonable hour. Shut down electronics at least one hour before bed. The rays emitted from your electronics, including your phone, decrease the sleep-inducing hormone, melatonin. Start a 'bed-time ritual' so your body and mind know it's time to prepare for sleep.

6.Add Ginger, Turmeric and Garlic to everything. These powerhouse spices are incredibly effective immune boosters. Start cooking with these spices and enhance the flavor and nutritional benefit of your food.