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Ten
Steps to a Stronger Immune System
by Marguerite Baca
by Marguerite Baca
- Dine on raw garlic, especially if you've been exposed to colds and
flues or find yourself getting chilled easily. Garlic has an antimicrobial
and antiviral affect. The healing element of garlic, allicin is deactivated
by heat. You may find it yummy crushed raw onto toast, pesto sauce,
salsa or salads.
- Be sure to sweat occasionally, especially if you're feeling run down.
Thirty percent of toxins are emitted through our pores. Cardiovascular
exercise is not the only way to sweat. The most luxurious way to sweat
is to preheat your bathroom and draw a very warm bath to create a sauna
effect.
- Regular elimination is another obvious way in which toxins are released.
To enhance regularity, eat lots of high water content fresh fruits and
vegetables. Another very affective habit is to drink a cup or two of
warm water first thing in the morning.
- Master a very slow exhale. Exhaling slowly triggers the parasympathetic
nervous system. When the PNS is activated the immune system functions
at its best by signaling to your body the message, "I am relaxed."
- Get Plenty of Rest. A good night's rest also activates the parasympathetic
nervous system and it is at this time that viral-damaged cells more
actively regenerate.
- Breathe consciously using your diaphragm. Just as the heart is the
pump for the bloodstream, the diaphragm is likened to the pump for the
lymph system. The lymph fluid is what carries out the toxins from the
bloodstream. Simply take some time to breathe fully and slowly draw
the diaphragm into your spine as you exhale. This creates a vacuum effect
that cleanses the bloodstream more efficiently.
- Breathe quality oxygen. When you can, breathe near natural bodies
of water, out in nature, or near plants. Some plants remove toxins from
the environment and can be used to control indoor air quality. Even
NASA has sent plants into space to enhance air quality for astronauts.
Recommended plants are English Ivy, philodendron, bamboo palms, or peace
lilies.
- While it's important to be aware of our emotions, don't cop a bad
attitude. We are all exposed to the same viruses, however, studies show
that those who experience high levels of anger and tension are four
times more likely to "catch the bug" as those who do not feel
these emotions. Create a peaceful and serene inner and outer environment
for yourself.
- Meditate. Taking time to be in silence and observe your breathing
will slow down your brain waves and again activate the parasympathetic
nervous system.
- Rinse your sinuses with a saline solution. Some holistic health stores carry sinus rinse cups, also known as Jala Neti cups. This is an ancient technique used for thousands of years. You simply mix approximately half a teaspoon of salt with a cup of lukewarm water. Make the solution as salty and warm as your tears. By cleansing the sinus cavities you wash away the airborne microbes that attach to the mucous membranes before they have a chance to settle in and attack. Although it may sound like a foreign idea, we are composed of approximately eighty seven percent water. It's like taking a refreshing dive in the ocean.