by Carol Reed, L.Ac., MSTCM, Reiki Master

The last few years, if it has taught us anything, has shown us how absolutely essential it is to take a deeper look at our immune system. Tools to help boost immunity are an excellent way to become pro-active with your health maintenance. This includes adopting lifestyle practices to boost immunity naturally: spending time outdoors in nature, choosing activities that help are cardiovascular system as well as adopting time and space for more meditative activities. These include: yoga, qigong, mindful meditation, nature bathing, earthing, sound therapy. Anything which shifts us from our sympathetic response (fight or flight) to our parasympathetic response (rest and digest).

Diet is also a huge component to our immune response. Eating a balanced menu, based on your body’s needs, is essential. Local, organic, farm raised produce is the best choice! Your food should truly be your medicine. Supplements should also be added, due to the mineral depletion of our soil (much more to discuss on this topic in future articles). Also, making sure you are taking a complex B supplement, VitD, VitC, and supplementing with the appropriate minerals (my favorite is Shilajit, an Ayurvedic mineral supplement from the Himalaya’s which has anti-viral properties, perfect for these times).

I am a huge fan of medicinal mushrooms and add them to my diet (and my pup’s diet) daily.

From immune boosting properties, cognitive health improvements, and cardiovascular support, the list of healing benefits is vast. My favorite recipe (and this can be used for those that dislike the texture or flavor of our fungi friends) is this Chocolate smoothie that I have every morning.

FUNgi Chocolate Malt

2 cups plant based milk (oat, hemp, coconut, etc)
1 T Tahini (calcium)
1 T hemp seeds
1 tsp maca powder (mood, energy level improvement)
1 tsp cacao powder (raw/organic, theobromine)
1 tsp maple syrup or local honey
1 tsp Reishi mushroom powder (improves sleep, depression, focus, immune health, longevity)
1 tsp Lion’s mane (supports cognitive health, longevity, concentration, nervous system)
1 tsp Chaga (reduces inflammation, longevity support, coffee substitute)
1/2 cup yogurt or keifer (probiotics, digestive health), omit if plant based

Blend ingredients and enjoy!

As an acupuncturist, I must also add, when you are eating, EAT! Do not multi-task. Allow your digestive system to fully appreciate the moment of enjoying your meal, with no other distractions. Give yourself this time, tune into the experience fully, mindfully. Make it a ritual. If you are watching TV/news, driving, doing anything other than enjoying your meal completely, then your digestion in weakened.

Adopting a healthy life rhythm including meditation, centering techniques, healthy eating habits, and restful sleep patterns are essential. Attending classes to help you center (yoga, qigong, sound therapy) and receiving regular treatments from an experienced practitioner of acupuncture, Therapeutic Bodywork, Reiki (to name a few), all will assist your immune system to work at it’s best capability.

Health truly is wealth! I invite you to give your self permission to prioritize your health fully and most affectively! You are what you eat and you are what you think!

Be the best version of yourself that you can be!

If you have any questions or comments please reach out: carol@elementsoftao.com or by phone 208.351.0952 or to schedule an appointment.

You are worth it!