We are all focused on health right now so we thought we’d offer a few little ideas to help you stay well:
Start eating better! Now more than ever it’s time to start eating well. Eating well is paramount for a healthy immune system. Getting three meals in a day loaded with organic food and lots of veggies and fruit can boost the immune system. If you’re ordering or picking up groceries, do your best to plan meals with foods like greens, wild mushrooms, turmeric, ginger, matcha, garlic, marrow-based soups, and citrus. These can all boost the immune system. Make sure to have between seven and 11 servings of fruits and vegetables that have fiber and are loaded with antioxidants.
Also, it’s important to eat cooked foods. With spring right around the corner, and warmer temperatures headed our way, it is normal to desire cold foods. Cold foods increase the production of mucous and weaken the digestive fire. According to some Chinese medicine principles, warm foods like oatmeal, sweet potatoes, whole grains, soups and stews all keep the digestive system healthy and warm which is a good line of defense.
Try to decrease immune-depleting food and drinks. Junk food, alcohol, and sugar can all deplete immunity. You should also limit caffeine, which can dehydrate you. Instead, try herbal teas like rose hips which is high in vitamin C, chamomile which is relaxing, and lemon verbena. Hot tea will keep you warm and your nasal passages open.
Focus on increasing your sleep. Instead of staying plastered to the TV or your phone, take some time to rest. It’s the best medicine, and more is better than less. Turn off electronics at least an hour before bedtime, and no TV in the bedroom—especially the news!
And, of course, exercise. The weather is beautiful and your backyard is a great place to do some YouTube yoga or aerobics. Runs or walks around the neighborhood (keeping across the street; away from others) are also an option for us lucky folks in the open spaces of our city. The exercise will boost your immune system and the fresh air and sunshine will help calm your nerves.
From all of us at The Root Salon, we wish you wellness; now and always!