This article will discuss ways in which we can boost our immune systems as we brace ourselves for a coronavirus pandemic or to give it its proper name, Covid-19.
We have all heard the advice issued by the Government to wash our hands a zillion times a day, catch it, bin it, kill it and to avoid getting too close to anyone who may be unwell. So whilst we can do all of this, stock up on hand wash and avoid shaking hands, what else can we do?
One Massage Therapy for immune support
Recent studies have shown that massage therapy can help boost the immune system. Massage therapy is one of the most effective and popular alternative therapies in the UK. It’s use has been noted by ancient civilizations throughout the globe and dates as far back as 5000 years ago. Although most people use it for pain conditions, an increasing number of people use it for other conditions such as depression, anxiety, immunological conditions and more recently cancer. A study approved by the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, concluded that a single session of deep tissue massage may have fairly profound acute effects on the immune system. It also showed that participants had lower levels of cytokines, molecules that have an effect on inflammation in the body.
Massage improves the lymph flow in ducts and promotes circulation of lymph through the nodes. An improved lymph flow can help stimulate the production of more white blood cells, known as lymphocytes, that help the body to fight infection and combat viruses.
Massage to reduce anxiety
Anxiety and stress weaken the immune system so it is important not to panic during this uncertain time. The body relaxes during massage by switching from a sympathetic state to stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS). An active PNS will reduce levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, in the body thus decreasing stress. Relaxation hormones such as endorphins and oxytocin will increase to promote well-being while increased levels of serotonin act as the body’s natural anti-depressant.
Other steps
Prevention is key for individuals so as well as following advice from the Government and the NHS, it is also worth considering the steps below.
Eat well – ensure you are getting adequate vitamins and micronutrients by eating a well-balanced diet including plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables and drinking lots of water or herbal teas.
Get enough sleep – sleep deprivation lowers immunity and makes the body more susceptible to germs. Guidelines recommend between 7-9 hours per night.
Do some exercise – exercise supports immune function. Aim for at least 150mins of moderate exercise per week.
Avoid high intensity exercise if feeling unwell as this can have a negative impact on your immune system. Exercising too vigorously can suppress your immune system for a few days.
Get close to nature – spending time outside and getting exposure to green spaces has wide-ranging health benefits according to research.
De-stress with restorative activities as well as having a massage, read a good book, do some yoga or a take a long soak in an Epsom salt bath.
What One Massage Therapy is doing
Due to current Government guidelines regarding Covid-19, One Massage Therapy is temporarily closed as we face this crisis together.
Look after yourselves.