The not-so-esoteric aspects of immunity
With the continuation/resurgence of COVID-19 in the US and the beginning of flu-season upon us, all eyes are on immunity in the health world. While plants and supplements are amazing allies to help us strengthen this system, I think it’s important to share some of the additional ways we can build and maintain immunity in low- or no- cost ways.
Stress is a major way in which the immune system can be negatively impacted or weakened. While stress is basically unavoidable and can sometimes lead to positive change in our lives (think: the stress of finances leading to entrepreneurship or a successful career), the majority of it is unnecessary and causes negative impacts on our bodies and minds. An increase in cortisol (the stress hormone) decreases our immune system’s effectiveness by lowering the amount of antigens that can fight off infection.
While yoga and meditation are obviously some of my favorite free ways to reduce stress, a few other practices specific to immune system response are:
Breathwork
When you feel stress beginning to encroach, close your eyes and take 5-10 long, slow, deep breaths to bring you back into your body and press “reset” on your brain. This also works for when you know you are entering a stressful situation and you would like to be better prepared to be less emotionally-reactive toward what is to come (i.e. family dinners, doctor’s appointments, etc.)
Boundary Setting
Although they can sometimes cause a bit of stress to define and set, a lack of boundaries can deplete our immune system. When you set and honor boundaries for your own self-care, you can not only carve out more time for healthy activities, but also lessen the amount of psychospiritual stress you endure.
Joyful Movement
In tandem with being important for your physical well-being, moving your body in any way that gives you joy can reduce stress and strengthen immunity. This can be anything from dancing, flow arts, stretching, or sports to healthy sex or walking. It doesn’t have to be aerobic to work, just move.
Relationship/Community
As social creatures, it is important to our emotional health to have friends, family and community to lean on for support for our total well-being.
Spirituality and Time in Nature
Time in our physical world can lower our stress levels by reminding us to be present and focus on what is beautiful, what is real, and what is ever-changing.
Our immune system is incredibly responsive to our emotional states, and understanding the mind-body connection is vital to improving our health. When we take time to settle and calm the mind, we give our body more chances to build strength and to heal.