I couldn’t begin to guess how many times you have read an article or watched a program about Covid-19 since last winter. But as a holistic practitioner for more than 20 years, what stands out to me is the utter absence of any discussion about the value of a strong immune system, or the tools one needs to build one. If you didn’t already know that you have lifestyle habits that can boost your immune system, you would not get much help from all the stories.
Instead we are led to believe that our only hope lies in medications and a future vaccine. These both have immense value, especially the medications for those already infected, but we should not be left feeling like we are helpless in the face of the virus. Surely, this virus is highly contagious and potentially lethal, but we can use this time to be proactive and get our health in the best possible shape. It could pay off now more than ever before.
There is one exception to the nation’s lack of information on building a strong immune system, and that is a piece in the May 2020 AARP bulletin. Its title, “Who Gets Sick - and Why” describes two Covid-19 patients, one in his 50s and the other age 104. The 104 year-old survived; the 52 year-old did not. The article goes on to describe the natural decline of the immune system that coincides with aging, and the mystery around how some people, like the 104 year-old, are able to maintain its critical structure. This aspect of the immune system function is under study and much is not understood about it.
But what is understood is the way certain lifestyle factors influence the immune system.
What Causes Inflammation?
There are several lifestyle factors that create inflammation that are preventable:
smoking
obesity - especially belly fat
unmanaged stress
lack of quality sleep
poor nutrition - a diet of highly processed foods
When you have one or a combination of these lifestyle issues, you create inflammation within your body, all of which takes its toll on the immune system. Have you noticed you tend to get headaches when you’re stressed? Or acid reflux when you eat poor quality food? These lifestyle issues contribute to inflammation and challenge your immune system.
Make positive changes to boost immunity now
With a focus on immune building, there are several things you can do right now to lessen your vulnerability to Covid-19 or any other health challenge. I have been at home since mid-March due to our stay at home mandate in Massachusetts. The state is beginning to open restrictions this week, and with that will come potentially increased exposure to the virus, a time when it is especially important to have your health in the best possible status. Here’s what I am doing and the steps I plan to take in the coming weeks:
continue to get a good night’s sleep of 8 hours
eat highly nutritious meals and very limited sugar (contact me for menu ideas)
take quality supplements - as an add-on to quality food, not a replacement (link)
get out in Nature every day (my de-stress and exercise time)
connect with the people you love
give generously (yes, it’s a proven factor)
stay informed but don’t overload on news
practice safe distance, wear a mask, keep antibacterial spray with you, wash hands, avoid touching face, etc
visualize how all of these positive actions are bolstering your immune system
You can schedule a one hour consultation with me, preceded by your completing a questionnaire related to your current challenges and concerns.
I am also scheduling appointments on Wednesday and Thursdays in Westwood, MA for shiatsu acupressure and/or Reiki, following all covid-19 protocols to create a safe secure space for you.
Note: This information is not a replacement for medical care but instead is an educational tool for empowering all people interested in practicing a healthy lifestyle.