Being sick is the absolute worst feeling in the world. When your nose is clogged and your brain feels like a jackhammer's pounding at it relentlessly, all you want to do is curl up in the fetal position and hide under your blanket. Yeah…no, thanks!
Of course, one of the best ways to protect yourself is to get the flu shot ASAP, but a strong immune system is also a crucial defense against the virus. So protect yourself with these eight ways to strengthen your immunity:
Practice More Yoga
Yoga packs a powerful punch. Not only is it a great stress reliever, but certain poses and sequences can stimulate the four main physiological systems—the circulatory, digestive, nervous, and endocrine systems—which rev up your immunity. Try these yoga positions to help fend off all those colds going around.
Stock Your Pantry
We’re not totally convinced that an apple a day really keeps the doctor away, however, we’re positive that certain foods do have the potential to fight the flu, among other viruses. Look for edibles loaded with antioxidants, probiotics, and vitamins—just avoid added sugars. Or, better yet, shop for these six foods that boost immunity and promote weight loss the next time you’re grocery shopping. Win-win!
MORE: Is It Okay to Work Out When You Have a Cold?
Up Your Workout Intensity
So, you’re already aware of yoga’s immune-strengthening abilities (see above!), but if you prefer dumbbells to downward-facing dog, good news: People who exercised vigorously (really anything that gets your heart pumping) for two and a half hours a week were about 10 percent less likely to come down with a flu-like illness, according to recent study. Keep in mind that overdoing it at the gym can have the opposite effect, so give yourself plenty of time to recover.
Imbibe Wisely
Yup—drinking alcohol in moderation may bolster immunity, according to a study published in the journal Vaccine. Now, before you make plans for happy hour, you need to know that this research was done on animals, so what amped their health may not be the same for humans. That said, study authors stress that a glass of wine with dinner may have the same benefits—just go easy on the Pinot Noir.
Throw a Girls Night
We know what you’re up to this Friday night! Previous research suggests that social people have a greater resistance to infectious diseases. So make a point to pack your calendar a little more this flu season.
MORE: How to Avoid a Summer Cold
Book a Spa Day
Be honest, you could use some R&R lately. Experts say that regular 20-minute massages are enough to decrease cortisol levels—a stress hormone that can weaken immunity.
Get Plenty of Sleep
Here's another reason to get to bed early tonight: University of Chicago researchers found that anitbodies in sleep-deprived people who received a vaccine were weaker than those in well-rested people. Plus, getting enough sleep is one of the best ways to relieve stress, which will in turn boost your immunity.
Be Mindful of Your Makeup
Skin absorbs beauty products throughout the day, and certain formulas may contain artificial (and possibly toxic) ingredients that can screw with your immune system. Spring for all-natural products if you can, or at least look for picks with the fewest amount of ingredients.
MORE: You Will Not Believe How Quickly a Virus Can Spread in Your Office
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