We're in a nerve-wracking, and uncertain time right now with COVID-19. But while a lot is up in the air, there are still things we CAN do to boost our immune systems and stay as healthy (and happy) as possible. Below are 8 simple things that we can do, along with a powerful "Immunity Boosting" Tonic you can sip on while working from home... Scroll for details!
Immunity Boosting Tonic
Ingredients:
1 cup water
¼ tsp raw grated ginger
¼ tsp turmeric (powdered or grated)
2 tsps apple cider vinegar
1 tsp honey (anti-inflammatory)
½ a lemon (vitamin C)
1 clove garlic, chopped (has many antimicrobrial and antibacterial properties)
Dash of black pepper (unlocks the power of the turmeric)
Dash cayenne pepper
Directions:
Add all ingredients (EXCEPT the honey) to a pot and bring to a boil. Once the mix has boiled, let it simmer for 10 minutes. Strain and then add the honey.
Sip away, and enjoy!
8 Ways to Support Your Immune System:
1.) Load up on fruits and veggies- They carry essential antioxidants for immunity like Vitamin C, Zinc, beta carotene, etc... (Some immune system all-stars include: citrus fruits, garlic, turmeric, ginger, bell peppers, cruciferous veggies, spinach, papaya, kiwi)
2.) Hydrate- Water flushes toxins and free radicals, while pumping oxygen through our bodies. Squeeze a lemon in a glass of water for an extra Vitamin C boost!
3.) Eat probiotic rich foods- Help to diversify gut bacteria and support the health of our gut, which essentially is our immune system. If taking a probiotic supplement, look for one that has at least 30 to 50 billion colonies and at least eight strains of bacteria... (Probiotic rich foods include: yogurt, kombucha, kimchi, sauerkraut, etc.)
4.) Eat protein- The amino acids that are found in protein form the building blocks of our body's cells – including the cells that power our immune systems. (Grass-fed meat, fish, poultry, organic tofu, tempeh, etc.)
5.) Stress Management- Stress can actually lower our immune system, but don't stress about being stressed! This is a perfect time to take care of ourselves... Whether it's daily meditation for 10 minutes, at-home yoga, sipping your favorite relaxing tea, taking a hot bath, listening to calming music or your favorite song, cooking, watching a funny show, reading something uplifting, remembering to turn off the news every now and then, or simply breathing. Here is a relaxing breath technique to help calm the nervous system and allow you to feel more grounded.
6.) Exercise- There are many ways to keep movement part of your routine, and your body will thank you for it... (run or walk outside, at home yoga practice or strength routine, etc.)
7.) Sleep- Aim for 7-9 hours, but quality is more important than quantity. Rest up :)
8.) Wash your hands- Use warm water and lather hands, between fingers, and under nails with soap, and sing "Happy Birthday" two times before finishing.
Stay calm, happy, and healthy.
xx