How can we support our immune systems?

Having a healthy immune system will help protect us from COVID-19, and fight the virus, should we get infected. Here are some of the things we can do to support our immune systems:

• Try not to worry. If you are following the lifestyle advice of CDC (see previous blog), then you are doing what you can to reduce the risk of yourself and others contracting the virus. Excess worry and anxiety compromises our immune systems, and in TCM (traditional Chinese medicine) disturbs our qi.
• Eat healthy, wholesome meals, full of antioxidants and nutrient-dense foods. Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables if possible, and/or consider supplementing with Vitamin C, Vitamin D3, Magnesium, Zinc, and Selenium. 
• Get some fresh air. If you can, go outside for at least 20 minutes every day. If you can't, open windows and let some fresh air inside.
• Practice mindful breathing. In tai chi we practice diaphragm breathing, filling the lungs from the bottom to the top (as if the diaphragm is drawn down towards the belly), and emptying from the top to the bottom. This breathing enable the lungs to be filled to their fullest.
• Get plenty of rest. In normal life, it can be difficult to balance the yang activity of work and doing, with the yin, restful aspect of life required to live in balance (physically and emotionally). Yang is rooted in yin, so give yourself permission to just be, and use this time to nourish yin. In the long run, you will feel the benefit of this, and even recognise this as an important tool in grounding the active / yang side of your life.
• Drink lots of water. Staying hydrated not only helps to flush toxins from the body, it supports the function of mucous membranes (nasal passageways and airways) in protecting the body from being infected.
• Avoid processed sugars. Too much sugar can weaken the immune system, and makes it less able to deal with viruses and bacteria. Find healthier comfort foods, and moderate the sweet stuff!