Q: Can you give some suggestions on how to boost my immune system during these stressful times?
A: There is a surge of searches from online to calling physician’s on how to boost one’s immune system especially if the immune system is compromised. We do know that eating healthy, exercising and taking vitamin supplements all help strengthen the immune system. There is a very important factor that everyone needs to know. Back in 1975, the term psychoneuroimmunology (PNI)was coined.
Today, as more science and research has evolved, we have a better understanding between the central nervous system (CNS) and the immune system. We know now that both physical and emotional stress have a huge effect on your immune system.
Scientist and best selling author, Bruce Lipton, Ph.D., The Biology of Belief, ( Watch his latest You Tube Video on Covid19) states that stress is responsible for up to 90% of illness, including cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. Considering that stress sets off the body’s natural defense by releasing stress hormones that shut down non-essential systems and the immune system to conserve the body’s energy. As Dr. Lipton asserts, stress hormones like cortisol are so effective at compromising the immune system, and it’s essential that we keep our stress levels in check and how do we do that?
First of all, know that the mind/body are connected. You have two different immune systems, the one you were born with, and your adaptive immune system, the one you are best able to control. Our immune system is adaptive. Breath is an essential part of life. Breathe, use this gift of breath (belly breathing) to be calm and centered. Close your eyes and be your breath. Notice how much calmer and de-stressed you feel. The negativity will dissipate.
Breath in deeply and out completely. I know we are hearing this incessantly, but wash your hands and avoid contact with your face. Stay as stress-free as possible and maintain your positive thoughts like fear and negativity compromise your immune system.
If you can stay as stress-free as possible, your adaptive immune system can do its job. This is so right now and for the remainder of your life. When you eat well, stay active and positive, and relax/meditate, you will be giving your body its best chance to thrive, even during crises like what we are experiencing now.