It’s a strange and scary time. COVID-19 cases are sprouting up all over the place and we are quickly witnessing a true butterfly effect. Yes, we are currently dealing with a lot of unknowns and that is scary. However, what we do know is that the best way to avoid or fight COVID-19 {or any virus for that matter} is to keep your immune system in top shape. Here are a few easy and practical tips for nourishing your immune system, courtesy of our self-care contributor Sara Khosrowjerdi from House of Healer and Acupuncture Atelier.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only, please consult your doctor before making any dietary or health-related changes.
Good Hygiene Habits
Here are a few great tips for keeping up hygiene habits during this time, because good hygiene goes a long way.
Wash Those Hands
OK, so we know it’s the new “cool” but, washing your hands with warm water and soap is seriously the best way to fight off germs and illness. As much as possible, try to avoid shaking hands, touching objects, as well as touching your own face. It’s truly that simple — wash your hands for a minimum of 20 seconds with warm water and soap, and then hands off!
If you touch something, immediately wash your hands. If you go somewhere, wash your hands. If you have to touch your face or an object, wash your hands before and after. Chapped skin advice — invest in a good quality moisturizing hand cream as well. You are bound to get some dry skin, especially during these times.
Take Off Your Shoes
An excellent habit that is also quite simple is to take your shoes off and leave them at the door. Don’t risk bringing and tracking any germs into your home. By removing your shoes before or the moment you walk into your home, it limits exposing your home to any foreign bacteria or germs.
Wipe Down Commonly Touched Surfaces
Wipe down doorknobs, countertops, frequently used chairs, and other furnishings, telephones, keyboards, and appliances often. We now know what the CDC approved list of cleansers is to fight COVID-19. While supplies might be low, when you can it is always important to wipe down frequently used everyday areas with some of these items. Again, wash your hands {or wear gloves} when cleaning before, during, and after the cleaning session.
See More: Local Grocery Delivery Apps to Use ASAP So You Don’t Have to Leave the House
Foods
When it comes to the immune system, Sarah, as an acupuncturist, works to nourish the lungs and the metal element. In addition to acupuncture, she also always recommends foods that are excellent for the lungs and the immune system. Using what Mother Earth provides to us is a potent and natural way to keep the system healthy. What’s interesting to note is that many foods can be used to fight bacteria, inflammation, and even have anti-viral properties. Here are some foods to try.
Scallions, Onions, Garlic, Pears, + Ginger
Go-to lung nourishing foods include scallions {especially the white ends}, onions, garlic, pears, and ginger. Try adding one, two, or all of these into your daily routine and see how you feel. Remember you don’t need to turn into an onion to receive benefits, a little bit every day goes a long way on a preventative measure. Definitely adding more into that daily dose when you aren’t feeling well is always advisable.
Limit Inflammatory Foods
In addition to these lung nourishing foods, when it comes to your immune system, sometimes it just needs a little support. Making sure you are limiting all inflammatory foods will help keep your entire system working as it should. Limiting inflammatory foods like coffee, dairy, alcohol, sugars, carbohydrates, and other processed foods will help keep your entire body in check.
Hydration + Teas + Supplements
In addition to foods, there are lots of other beverages and supplements one can take to up the immune system.
Drink Water
H20, yo! Staying hydrated is crazy important for your entire system. Water helps to naturally eliminate toxins out of the body, as well as push out bacteria that may lead to illness. Not to mention, when our bodies are dehydrated they have to work really hard to do “normal” tasks. Staying hydrated is an easy way to keep your body functioning at optimal levels.
Drink Herbal Tea
If you have a challenging time drinking water during the day, try adding in some herbal teas into your daily sipping routine. Green teas, white, or perhaps even some Cistus tea are all excellent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory filled options. They will help fill you with free-radical fighting antioxidants as well as keep your body hydrated.
Sip on Coconut Water
Coconut water is full of electrolytes and fun fact it’s extremely hydrating. Many people use coconut water as an extra hydration boost, when they are unable to keep up with their daily water drinking routine, or when they travel.
Enjoy Warm Water + Lemon
At least try and start your day with a glass of warm water and lemon. This will start your system off on the right foot. The warm water activates the lemon cleansing properties, which acts to wake and cleanse your organs before their busy day. In addition, this simple task is an easy way to pump a full dose of vitamin C into the body first thing in the morning.
Take Vitamins + Supplements
When it comes to vitamins and supplements, Sarah always recommends using foods first. Again, if it is provided by Mother Earth, it is pretty potent stuff and should be taken seriously. During this time, listen to what your body needs. If you feel sluggish, perhaps you should add in some probiotics or even milk thistle. If you feel you aren’t getting enough nourishing foods, adding in a daily vitamin could be a good option for you. When in doubt as your doctor. Lastly, if you decide you do want to take vitamins and/or supplements for the love of Pete, please purchase quality products. Do your research and purchase from a reputable provider.
Read More: For a Dose of Calm: Local Healers Offering Virtual Sessions
Fears + Social Distancing
Many people do not like change. They love routines and are comfortable that way. Changes or anything unknown can bring up a lot of fears and anxieties. Yes, there are many unknowns at this time and it’s truly scary for many. This week in particular, panic really has seemed to step forward. Keeping the Central Nervous System calm is very important when it comes to managing your immune system. Think about the letdown cold or fever you got when you went on vacation. Never underestimate what stress is actually doing to your body. Stress and anxiety are complicated and therefore complicate the body. Here are a few tips to help keep those nerves at bay.
Do Fun Activities
Do activities you know you enjoy during this time. Keep up with physical activity as much as you possibly can. Don’t sit around dwelling and falling into the toxic pit of COVID-19 unknowns despair. There’s really nothing we can do except to take care of our bodies, our families, and our neighbors at this time. Stressing, panicking, or emotionally buying all of the toilet paper you can find only puts your immune system at a higher risk. Try distracting yourself or doing things that you truly enjoy if anxiety and stress are overwhelming you.
Practice Social Distancing
Next to hygiene habits, the most critical aspect of stopping the spread of COVID-19 is social distancing. If you are sick, think you might be getting sick, or are around sick people, stay home. There’s no need to feel bad about canceling plans these days, nobody wants those germs.
Remember, We Will Get Through This
Lastly, it’s important to remind ourselves that we are all in this together. But, it is a new reality. We need to start accepting that things are likely going to be complicated for a little while. It is a new path we will need to navigate through full of unknowns and fears. However, if we are smart, practice good hygiene habits, and take care of our bodies we will get through this.
What are some of your self-care tips for helping your immune system? Let us know in the comments!
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