Shift Your Mindset and Strengthen Your Immune system -Part1

     One of the questions that was repeatedly sent to me over the past few days, was this one:

Is it possible, and if so, how can I find my happy place in the face of adversity?

The answer is yes, you can. It’s a 2-step process: Boost your immune system and shift your perceptions. Happiness is an inside job. -W.Ward

If this idea resonates with you, keep reading, I can help you set up an action plan and here’s how. This article brings you valuable information that  includes practical tools for releasing stress and winning ways to shift gears into positive thinking. These tools and practices can help you not just stay afloat in uncertain times but thrive as well. 

Your State of Mind Affects Your Immune System

When it comes to disease, stress is a direct connection to whether or not you steer clear of it or succumb to its detrimental effects. Scientists once believed that the mind and the body were separate, that one didn’t influence the other. Today we know that isn’t the case. Your stress levels and general mental state can have profound effects on the efficacy of your immune system. Your immune system deals with illnesses like the flu, the common cold, cancerous cells on a daily basis, etc.

The enemy: Stress

Cortisol is an enemy of the immune system. During times of stress, the level of cortisol rises in the body. Researchers looked to those who made it to the 100-year mark to see how they dealt with their stress levels.  What they found is that they managed their stress actively by using coping techniques to help them reduce worry, let go of anger, and focus on the positive in their lives. If you can learn to manage the stress in your life, you will live a happier, healthier life.

Here’s a list of some stress-relieving techniques. All you have to do is put them to work for you.

Remedy#1 Sleep

Most of us know that a good night’s sleep is healthy; but do we really take that advice seriously? Many times, we brush aside a full night’s sleep due to our busy schedules, a need for “down-time” that keeps us up, or simply life’s circumstances. But a lack of sleep can result in more than just feeling tired (which is bad enough).

Poor sleep habits can devastate your immune system, leaving you susceptible to viruses and receptive to germs that trigger other illnesses. Make sure to maintain a regular bedtime routine. Your body requires sleep for time to recover and heal itself.

How can you improve sleep naturally?

• Set an early bedtime. Aim to get 7- 8 hours of sleep.
• Make a sleep routine a habit and stick to it.
• Establish a relaxing bedtime ritual. Turn off your electronic devices at least 30-min. before you go to bed.
• Practice meditation before bedtime. It helps you relax.
• Practice gratitude before you fall asleep. Think of one hundred things you are grateful for. You will fall asleep with a smile on your face, feeling blessed and content.

Remedy #2  Relaxation

Relaxation is so important for our wellbeing, it should be mandatory. Just a few of the benefits:

• Boosts the immune system
• Keeps your heart healthy
• Improves memory
• Restores the motivation centers of the brain

How can you relax when chaos is all around?

Some healthy habits for you to consider:

Mindset. Stay anchored in the present. In the words of Sir Winston Churchill, it’s a mistake to try to look too far ahead. The chain of destiny can only be grasped one link at a time. Looking at the performance of the stock market it’s safe to assume there’s panic in the air but it’s up to you to nurture a positive mindset. Self-talk has been known to deliver instant stress relief. Here’s a quick and easy tool to help you with that. Make a list of positive affirmations that resonate with you and repeat them on a regular basis, especially during periods of stress.

Technology. One day a week, turn off your electronic gadgets and get in touch with your quiet side. Technology can sometimes contribute to our stress.

Media. COVID19, the stock market, ships stuck out at sea, are of course alarming issues but don’t let them consume you to the point of stressing out. Choose a valid source of information and monitor how often you want to be updated. Be aware, be prepared and stay mindful of your wellbeing. 

Music. Listening to relaxing music has a positive impact on immune function. Make playlists of the music you find relaxing. Listen to your favorite music in the car, at home, at work. When night comes, close the creative energies of the day with something soothing for the heart and the spirit. 

Laughter.  Laughing has a powerful impact on immune function. Laughter boosts immunity and reduces stress and pain. The chemical reaction from laughter is directly connected to the basal forebrain. This area of the brain releases dopamine which is a natural opiate. The increase of dopamine and endorphins in the brain when you laugh can provide pleasure and a sense of accomplishment.

Laughter also promotes neurochemical brain changes which increase the memory enhancement – gamma wave band frequency.  Add laughter elements to your life and use humor to deflect negative thoughts from entering your mind. Before you settle down to sleep at night, watch a funny show or read a funny book to get a restful evening off to a good start. A great joke book is the “Pretty good joke book” -Garrison Keiller.

All of your worries may not simply melt away with adding more laughter in your life but try it for a while. It’s true that “laughter can improve the quality of our lives.”

I hope you enjoyed reading this post and that you found some useful ideas you can put into action right away. As you practice your favorite picks from my tips, remember to be patient with yourself. Start slow and gradually build upon the new habit you are establishing.

Stay safe, inspired and most importantly happy during this time.