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How To Boost Your Immune System And Reduce Stress
We all lead busy lifestyles, filled with commitments to family, friends, work, and extracurricular activities. In general, keeping up with all of these varying obligations can be fulfilling and exciting. But being so occupied also induces a lot of stress in each of us.
And stress, of course, is far from fulfilling. In fact, the effects of stress are deteriorating to the body, as stress hormones are released into the blood stream, causing us to retain unwanted weight (or in some cases lose it), lose our appetite, and get less sleep.
What a vicious cycle! But perhaps worst of all, our immune system's barrier against infectious disease starts breaking down. That means that when you are exposed to germs for the cold, flu, or other contagious sicknesses, you will be more susceptible to contracting them.
So, what you need to do is take some measures to both reduce your amount of stress and build your immune system back up, preferably at the same time (you are busy, after all).
First, you want to make sure that you are getting enough sleep. I know this is difficult to do, but make it a goal to drop what you're doing at a specific time of night and subsequently go to bed at about the same time every night--even on weekends or special occasions.
You should also get about around the same time. Shoot for between eight and nine hours of sleep each night. In the morning, get yourself into the habit of taking a complete multivitamin. Vitamins C and B (all types) can help to boost your immune system. Other vitamins and minerals will fill in the gaps in your diet.
Speaking of your diet, try to include as much fresh fruits and veggies as possible. Try to avoid sugary, processed foods and do eat plenty of whole grains. If you are tempted to keep running to the local fast food joint on your lunch break, try planning meals ahead instead.
If you can't, try to go for the healthier selections now offered by many fast food places and take snacks to keep your blood sugar from crashing.
Take some time to care for yourself. If you are day planner-obsessed, then write it into your schedule. I highly suggest getting a deep-tissue massage, as this flushes toxins from your body. The same thing is accomplished by enjoying time in a steam sauna.
Call your local day spa to find out if they have a portable steam sauna for you to enjoy before or after your massage. Not only will this release much of your stress and allow you to recharge, it will boost your immune system to keep you from falling to disease, which will only make more obligations pile up and perpetuates the stress!
About the Author Natural Health Technologies (http://www.steamywonder.com/) is available for anyone looking for the health benefits associated with a portable steam sauna. Art Gib is a freelance writer.
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