Immunity
- Immunity is our body’s defence mechanism againsth disease-causing micro-organisms. When our immune system is weak these foreign organisms invade the body and offset the balance and harmony. Ayurveda offers ample recommendations to keep our immune system strong and working harmoniously.
- The first line of defence is maintaining a healthy lifestyle which comes under the ambit of dinacharya (daily healthcare regimen) and ritucharya (seasonal healthcare regimen). Keep the three pillars of life in balance i.e ahaar, nidra and brahmacharya, maintain the agni and use rejuvenating herbs.
- Nasya, kavala and gandusha are some of the dinacharya regimes which though may sound trivial but are effective in maintaining good immunity. If nasya seems a daunting everyday task then one can apply ghee or oil to the nostrils before stepping out of the house. It acts as a protective barrier against micro-organisms.
- Exercise mindfulness while eating, maintain proper meal timings as per the doshic cycle, try to inculcate the six tastes in your meals, avoid incompatible food combinations, avoid processed foods, and include agni kindling herbs in the diet.
- Eat as clean and organic as possible. Rampant use of pesticides, heavy metals, and toxins in our food and environment compromise immunity and pave way for illnesses. So, eat as fresh, locally sourced, and seasonal produce as possible.
- Some of the Ayurvedic herbs which improve immunity are Indian basil/tulsi, Indian gooseberry/amla, liquorice/mulethi, ashwagandha, brahmi, turmeric, ginger, garlic, long pepper, and black pepper. Include them in the form of teas, infusions or whole spices in the food.
- Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. Fruits rich in Vitamin C are good to boost immunity. Foods rich in iron, magnesium, potassium ,and zinc are good for immunity like green leafy vegetables, beetroot, carrot, broccoli, beans, whole grains, different kinds of seeds, and nuts.
- Follow steps to maintain hygiene in public and social setup. Wash your hands, sanitize wherever necessary, wash the vegetables, fruits, and meats properly, post covid mask has become a norm, which should be strictly followed.
- Reduce alcohol and smoking as much as you can because these habits weaken the immune system especially involving the liver, kidneys, and lungs.
- A balanced and regular sleep routine is equally important for a healthy immune system. Our body goes through both physical and mental detox while in sleep. Deep and uninterrupted sleep allows this process to happen without any hindrance, in turn keeping the immune system strong.
- Stress is a powerful contributor to a compromised immune system. Reduce stress through Yoga, meditation, and pranayama. Practise mindfulness in everyday life and live in the moment. Stop worrying about the future or dwelling in the past and life will seem much easier.
- Follow a regular exercise routine as per your strength and rules of exercise. Try to maintain a healthy weight.
- Proper expert-guided cleanse like Panchakarma once a year or weekly fasting are some of the effective Ayurvedic measures to boost immunity.
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