Being sick is the absolute worst feeling in the
world. When your nose is clogged and your brain
feels like a jackhammer’s pounding at it
relentlessly, all you want to do is curl up in the
fetal position and hide under your blanket. Yeah…
no, thanks!
Of course, one of the best ways to protect yourself
is to get the flu shot ASAP, but a strong immune
system is also a crucial defense against the virus. So
protect yourself with these eight ways to strengthen
your immunity:
Practice More Yoga
Yoga packs a powerful punch. Not only is it a great
stress reliever, but certain poses and sequences can
stimulate the four main physiological systems—the
circulatory, digestive, nervous, and endocrine
system—which rev up your immunity. Try these
yoga positions to help fend off all those colds going
around.
Stock Your Pantry
We’re not totally convinced that an apple a day
really keeps the doctor away, however, we’re
positive that certain foods do have the potential to
fight the flu, among other viruses. Look for edibles
loaded with antioxidants, probiotics, and vitamins
—just avoid added sugars. Or, better yet, shop for
these six foods that boost immunity and promote
weight loss the next time you’re grocery shopping.
Win-win!
Up Your Workout Intensity
So, you’re already aware of yoga’s immune-
strengthening abilities (see above!), but if you
prefer dumbbells to downward-facing dog, good
news: People who exercised vigorously (really
anything that gets your heart pumping) for two and
a half hours a week were about 10 percent less
likely to come down with a flu-like illness,
according to recent study. Keep in mind that
overdoing it at the gym can have the opposite
effect, so give yourself plenty of time to recover.
Imbibe Wisely
Yup—drinking alcohol in moderation may bolster
immunity, according to a study published in the
journal Vaccine. Now, before you make plans for
happy hour, you need to know that this research
was done on animals, so what amped their health
may not be the same for humans. That said, study
authors stress that a glass of wine with dinner may
have the same benefits—just go easy on the Pinot
Noir.
Throw a Girls Night
We know what you’re up to this Friday night!
Previous research suggests that social people have a
greater resistance to infectious diseases. So make a
point to pack your calendar a little more this flu
season.
Book a Spa Day
Be honest, you could use some R&R lately. Experts
say that regular 20-minute massages are enough to
decrease cortisol levels—a stress hormone that can
weaken immunity.
Get Plenty of Sleep
Here’s another reason to get to bed early tonight:
University of Chicago researchers found that
antibodies in sleep-deprived people who received a
vaccine were weaker than those in well-rested
people. Plus, getting enough sleep is one of the best
ways to relieve stress, which will in turn boost your
immunity.
Be Mindful of Your Makeup
Skin absorbs beauty products throughout the day,
and certain formulas may contain artificial (and
possibly toxic) ingredients that can screw with your
immune system. Spring for all-natural products if
you can, or at least look for picks with the fewest
amount of ingredients.
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