By Petra Poschmann, Tanner Care
The immune system is a complex network of cells and proteins that defends our bodies against infection. It is yet another marvelous part of these amazing bodies which we should take good care of because they are now more important than ever! Why is that? Right now, we have so many sick people that sometimes it is not easy to get the care you need when you need it. The newspapers are full of stories of crowded hospitals. It is best to take excellent care of your body and your immune system, that first line of defense, to avoid getting too sick by considering how you eat, manage stress, and move your body.
Foods can boost your immune defenses! According to Dr. William W. Li, the way we eat can make a big difference for our immunity. By minimizing animal products and highly processed foods and instead eating fresh whole foods full of Vitamin C and fiber, we support our bodies, and we eat to beat disease.
In addition, Harvard Health Publishing (Harvard Medical School) says that for the immune system to function well it needs balance and harmony. Besides eating well, we should follow a good lifestyle by getting sufficient sleep, staying physically active, and managing our stress, fears and anxieties. We are so lucky to be living here in California where even in winter we can take daily strolls in our neighborhoods under sunny blue skies.
I also find that yoga and meditation offer tremendous help to connect with your own body and mind and to find peace and calm, both of which allow you to be kind and mindful to others who need it. When thinking of yoga, a picture of a young-looking athlete wrapping her leg around her neck might come to mind, but actually, yoga is accessible to everyone! Whether you do gentle yoga with the help of a chair or yoga at the highest levels, it will keep your body strong and flexible and your mind focused and calm. So turn off all the outer influences for a while, find a quiet place in your home, and give yourself some time with yourself. Yoga helps you to sleep better and to find gratitude toward your amazing body which supports you every single day. It helps to strengthen your immune system by creating internal balance and well-being.
Please remember to take care of your best friend, your immune system! It’s like the oxygen mask on the airplane: you need to take care of yourself first before you can help others. If you need any help or have any questions, please feel free to contact us here at Tanner Care Health and Wellness Center at 626.471.9710. We wish everyone good health and happiness!