Boosting immunity is not just about downing those elderberry shots and oil of oregano tinctures when you’re already down for the count. Taking care of our immunity needs to be a consistent effort so that when the flu is rampaging through town your system will already be strong and resilient.
Mindful mama and raw food chef, Sophie Jaffe of Philosophie, is sharing a few simple superfood recipes to boost immunity plus a few daily activities to help us coast through cold and flu season like it’s no big deal…
It’s so important to support our immune system to keep us all feeling vibrant and fresh. I make sure all my littles are feeling the best they can, especially as we head into the winter season. Cold and flu season is here, so why not make it a habit to install daily practices to help ward off any bugs intent on taking up residence in your body? Cultivating good habits will promote a healthy, top-notch immune system.
Besides taking up healthy habits, learn to manage your stress and keep a positive outlook — your emotional state has as much to do with your physical health. High stress and anxiety causes stress on your body. There’s nothing worse than getting that terrible scratchy feeling in your throat — it’s a big red flag that you’re getting sick.
Healing Immunity Remedies
To help you ward off any bugs, as well as look and feel your best, here are some simple ways to boost your immune system:
Keep up your workout routine. If you’re more active, you’ll be a lot less likely to catch a cold. Walk, jog, ride your bike or do any exercise will increase immune function and make you feel happier. If you need a short and sweet but powerful workout, try a HIIT routine in your home.
Substitute over-the-counter cough syrups with gentle and healing organic honey. At the first sign of a cold, instead of reaching for the cough syrup, opt for organic, raw honey instead. Studies have found that honey can be as effective as a common cough suppressant ingredient (dextromethorphan) in typical over-the-counter doses. The moment you feel a scratchy throat, try philosophie Green Bee Honey or Berry Bee Honey (loaded with extra vitamin C) to lubricate the throat and boost your immune system with superfoods and adaptogens to heal you quickly. They’re absolutely perfect in tea, coffee and baked goods.
Brew this Medicinal Goji Tonic.Goji berries are the star behind this immune-boosting tonic. The organic goji powder in Berry Bliss Protein and Superfood Blend, Coconut Bliss Coconut Butter and Berry Bee Honey combined with medicinal tea, oat milk, and ashwagandha make a beautifully healing tonic that supports the nervous system, strengthens immunity and boosts energy levels.
Get a good night’s sleep. Research shows that not getting enough sleep is as bad as unrelenting stress. Aiming to get a good seven to eight hours of sleep every night is deeply healing to your body and fuels your body for the day ahead. We all need our beauty rest!
Supercharge meals + beverages. Adding superfoods into your meals and drinks throughout the day can have powerful effects on your body system functions. You can mix Philosophie Berry Bliss, Green Dream or Cacao Magic into your morning coffee, smoothie, yogurt or salad dressing for a detoxifying, immunity boost. Then there’s always a spoonful of coconut butter — an oh-so-yummy snack for staving off hunger and keeping colds at bay.
Eat foods high in fiber, low in fat and those that contain plenty of omega-3 fatty acids. Feeding your body certain foods can help keep your immune system strong. To prevent winter colds and the flu, your first step should be a visit to your local farmer’s market. Plan your meals to include powerful immune system boosters. For example, wild salmon, ground flaxseeds walnuts, chia seeds, or hemp seed. I also encourage you to add fruits and veggies rich in antioxidants to help stimulate your immune system.
Go upside down every day. Include a headstand, shoulder stand, plough pose or downward-facing dog in your yoga practice. Or if you’re not quite ready for this, simply touch your toes and let your whole body hang. Strong immunity depends on good circulation, and inversions are yoga’s fight for your immune system.
Get outside. I love being outside. I try to get outside at least once a day even if it’s just a short morning walk around the neighborhood with my kiddos. Listen to birds sing, watch the sunset or take a stroll in the park. Being in nature can be calming and nurturing to your soul, spirit and body.
Above all, practice loving, kindness toward yourself and others, count your blessings and don’t forget to laugh out loud every day!
