by Peter Francis Cunneen, MATCM
Activities, attitude & lifestyle to support strong natural immunity:
Balance activity & rest. Overworking physically or mentally or depriving yourself of restorative sleep will surely weaken you and make you more susceptible to infection. On the other hand, being sedentary has been compared to smoking a pack of cigarettes a day for its negative impact on your health. Regular physical exercise of 30 minutes or more / day of moderate intensityis essential to maintain immune functioning as well as contribute to mental clarity, reduce stress and promote sleep. Walking is the simplest exercise, so go out, while respecting the social distancing required. If you cannot go out, practice Qigong or other gentle movement as demonstrated on the videos links from this blog (see our category Qigong for health).
Create a healthy environment. Enjoying the fresh air, bathing in the natural sunlight, preferably in the morning(ultra-violet rays stimulate immunity and inhibit microbial activity) and avoiding cramped and cluttered spaces and dampness & mold will support your immunity.
Learn Qigong. There are many specialized mind-body exercises from the Chinese medical tradition that relieve stress, boost immunity, balance organ function and improve our overall health and longevity. The Hungry Tiger (Qigong for the Lungs I video, category Qigong) strengthens the Lungs and Defense system while the Shielding meditation (video, Meditation category) rallies your body, mind and spirit for total protection from negative energies.
Be positive. Attitudinal adjustments can greatly influence immunity. Prayer, meditation and related tools can help you relieve the tension from old hurts and held emotions. As you open your heart and cultivate gratitude and forgiveness and give up frustration, bitterness or resentment you let the healing light back into your life.
Enjoy a good laugh. Research shows deep belly laughter can significantly boost immunity.
Keep your spirits up. Reach out when in need. When making changes in diet or lifestyle, remember that one simple change at a time is what works. Take it step-by-step.
My next blog will follow soon!