“Depending on what they are, our habits either make us or break us – we become what we repeatedly do” – Sean Covey
Health truly is wealth, and there has never been a better time to understand this than right now, while putting up a tough fight against the pandemic. Today, more than ever, people across the globe are expressing their gratitude for and paying close attention to their health and immunity, for obvious reasons. While living in a country like India, it can be stumping to weigh out the pros and cons of following a regular regime. Is it safe to step out for a run? Will my lungs forget how it feels to breathe in polluted air? Will I be more susceptible to illnesses if my body doesn’t remember what it’s like to be outdoors? The solution is simple. While you contemplate whether or not you need to step out, build and strengthen your immunity while you’re indoors. How? Here are some simple ways to strengthen your immunity and enjoy holistic wellness without stepping out!
Begin at the Bottom – Your Gut
Immunity begins in your gut, so the healthier the stuff you put in there, the healthier you are. Good bacteria strengthens your immune system and can be found in whole fruits and vegetables, yoghurt, fermented foods, pulses/beans/lentils/legumes and of course the kings of good health – ginger, garlic and onion. Additionally, foods rich in Vitamin C significantly foster your immune system and keep you hale and hearty.
Workout on the Reg
Yes, we hear you, your schedule is super tight and you have to meet all your deadlines. But hey, just 30 minutes of regular exercise is all it takes to prevent a myriad of health complications, diseases and conditions. Find a regime that you like – walk, run, jump rope or stretch it out on a yoga mat – and dedicate that half-hour to your physical and mental health for a strong immune system. You owe it to yourself.
Lay Off the Nicotine
It is, and we cannot emphasize this enough, as plain as a pikestaff that smoking is the worst thing you can do to your body. Apart from the obvious cons of this filthy habit, it compromises your lungs and prevents them from combatting illnesses, especially the coronavirus. Wear a patch, chew some nico gums or just practice some self-control – laying off nicotine can significantly boost your immune system and help your lungs keep themselves clean.
Hydrate and Hit the Sack
Your fatiguing lifestyle can take a toll on your health, which is why giving your body timely breaks and at least 7-8 hours of sound sleep is indispensable. Sleep deprivation can tamper your immune system more than you can imagine. Additionally, increase your water intake to help your body flush out harmful toxins. Staying hydrated helps your body function properly and keeps your immune system replenished and ready to take on a challenge.
Adopt a Pet
Are we kidding? Absolutely not! Having a pet has innumerable health benefits. Living around a domestic animal can protect your immune system against a spectrum of allergies and conditions like asthma and eczema. Pet owners are less likely to have blood pressure problems, mental health problems and are notably happier and stress-free. Having a pet has also shown to increase levels of serotonin and dopamine which have pleasurable, calming effects on the human mind and body. All in all, a pet can keep you happy and in turn healthy too!