Friday, March 27, 2020

Staying Healthy and Covid-19 Free!


     Who would have ever thought we'd be experiencing such a frightening pandemic? Let's all hang on to hope and faith, knowing that even though this is a huge bump in the road, this, too, will pass. When, we don't know, but it will!

     I'm guessing that many are feeling fearful and anxious. That's natural when we're not in control. However, there is much we can do to boost our health, and remain positive and hopeful.
     Let's explore a 3-pronged approach: Body, Mind, and Spirit.

     First - our Bodies. Consuming foods that boost immunity and create an anti-inflammatory environment are vitally important to not only fend off viruses and other creepy crawlers, but assist in healing when affected with those dastardly visitors!
     Those healing foods are first and foremost our Greens, Beans, Onions, Mushrooms, Berries, Seeds and Nuts. Basically, plant based nutrition - Fruits, Veggies, Legumes, Grains, Seed and Nuts! They're a winning combination.
     Important to fill our bodies with dark, leafy greens, high fiber foods, and avoid dairy, animal protein, and processed foods, all of which are inflammatory and factor in chronic disease formation.
     Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water and feast on hibiscus tea - the tea known to boost immunity, so says our wonderful nutrition expert, Dr. Michael Greger, www.nutritionfacts.org.
     Exercise is a must. Keep the body moving. Our bones and joints will thank you. Important, as well, is resistant training. Lift weights at home.  Take a walk outside, and if that isn't possible, enjoy some of the fun videos that are available through the media - TV and YouTube. 


Our Mind and Spirit:
     
     Spring is a time of rebirth - flowers, blooming trees, green grass, birds singing in the early morning hours, and even welcoming the bunnies and chipmunks that have returned to the garden!!
     If we remain glued to news, and I admit I'm a big offender, it's important to also take time to step away and calm ourselves. Listening to the daily dose of negativity increases our sense of anxiety and nervousness which, in turn, increases stress hormones, thereby decreasing our body's immune defenses. Turn off the TV and media for a while.
   Instead, walk, meditate, pray, read, do yoga, Reiki, whatever is your usual mind/spirit practice. We need to arm ourselves so the daily drone of negativity will remain at arm's length. It's important to hear the FACTS and know what's happening in our nation and world, but important, as well, to engage in those practices which generate hope, peace, and faith!
     Many Church communities are offering online services. My own community on Cape Cod has initiated such contact, and it's refreshing to chat and check in with community friends. Those connections are immune boosters!
     And in spite of the social/physical distancing we all must adhere to, isn't it gift to have so many technological choices in which to stay connected?! Facebook, Facetime, Instagram, YouTube, iPhone, etc. Chatting  with family and friends each day affords a sense of normalcy and connection. We all need that. And sometimes we all need a listening ear. Some feel it's a sign of weakness to ask for help, but the reality is that it's a sign of strength.
     Stay strong, friends and family. This will pass. And, God-willing, we will learn from this experience and emerge on the other side as a nation and peoples filled with more compassion, empathy, and kindness!
    
     
     




     

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