Building Immunity Through the Ancient Science of Ayurveda

Ayurveda is one of the most comprehensive holistic healthcare practices on the planet. This 5,000-year-old science from India focuses on diet and lifestyle practices that bolster the immune system and prevent disease. Ayurveda is based on being in rhythm and in sync with nature. When we get out of sync, we begin to see disturbances within our bodies. There are may ways to incorporate Ayurveda into your daily lifestyle and diet; here are some ideas to consider:

• Maintain physical hygiene. Wash hands frequently, avoid shaking hands and hugging. Instead, like many international leaders today, adopt a namaste greeting. Namaste is usually spoken with a slight bow and hands pressed together, palms touching, and fingers pointing upwards, thumbs close to the chest.
• Avoid white sugar. Research shows that having white sugar reduces our immunity by half. It has also been shown to be connected to cancer. Instead, use jaggery, brown, or coconut sugar.
• Avoid coffee, alcohol, and cigarettes. All of these substances have been proven to compromise the immune system.
• Take Tulasi. This herb is available as supplements or herbal tea and even droplets. It is useful in respiratory issues like cold and cough. It antiviral and antibacterial.
• Supplements like Ashwagandha, Chyavanprash, Shakti Drops, Brahmi, and Amalaki can help boost the immune system. However, please consult with an Ayurveda Practitioner before consuming these herbs, since there are contraindications that need to be considered. 
• Use turmeric and black pepper in food. If you drink milk, then add a pinch of turmeric and black pepper to boiling milk. Drink it in the morning or before bed. Other spices that are good for immunity are ginger, cumin, cardamom, cinnamon, fennel, and coriander.
• Eat a diet full of fresh cooked organic vegetables and grains with immune-boosting herbs and spices to aid in digestion and help to boost the immune system. Eat with the seasons and include foods that are high in zinc, like legumes, seeds, nuts, and whole grains like oatmeal and quinoa.
• Sip hot water. Hot water clears congestion and flushes out toxins.
• Apply two drops of ghee or sesame oil inside the nose. A dry nose is more prone to viral infections.
• Abhyanga—self-massage with oil—before bath or shower to relax the body and care for the skin and muscle tissues.
• Practice yogic breathing and meditation. These help strengthen the body’s ability to fight diseases and also keep calm during the widespread fear and panic. Chanting can also be beneficial.
• Stay active. Exercise boosts your immunity—just a few minutes of gentle yoga or walking a day can help prevent simple bacterial and viral infections. Daily walking can also help to ensure that you’re getting sunlight for improving mood and some Vitamin D.
• Make sure you are getting enough sleep (eight hours each night). Keep a consistent sleep schedule (asleep by 10:00 pm and up before sunrise).
• Create your tribe of love and support. Whether it be with family, pets, friends, or even an online community, being grateful, appreciated, and supported can help boost the immune system.
• Learn more about Ayurveda through our education programs listed below.