Your body’s immune system protects you against illness, which could keep you feeling better and less likely to have to take time away from the kids. You are busy, and stress can lower your immune system, as can not getting enough sleep. Thankfully, there are things you can do to support and strengthen the body, so your self-care starts now!

Learn Ways to Reduce Stress

Lowering stress is important as, over time, it can reduce the immune response and inflammation can build in the body. If you’re unsure what works well to lower stress, try a few different things and see which one is most effective. Among the options are journaling, meditation, and deep breathing. Some people turn to exercise when they want to release mental and physical tension. The main thing here is to ease your mind, if only temporarily, during the activity, helping your brain and body find some relief.

Eat to Build Your Immune System

While you may have followed meal plans to lose weight or while training for an athletic competition, you may not have thought about how the food you consume affects your immune system. A range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants is necessary for proper functioning. Generally, a diet full of different-colored fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains makes sense. Garlic supplements help some people prevent illness and get over being sick quicker. That can be a better alternative than raw garlic for some people as there is no pungent odor or aftertaste.

Get Enough Sleep

While you sleep, your body restores itself, helping you get over being sick or feel less fatigued the next day. It can also boost immunity. Not getting enough sleep night after night, on the other hand, prevents you from getting those benefits. It could mean you’re miserable with a cold longer than you would have been if you had gotten eight hours of slumber. Try to get enough sleep on weekends in addition to weekdays, even when you’re very busy. The amount of sleep varies from individual to individual, so get to know how much you need to feel rested and aim to get it regularly.

Drink Water

This one is obvious, but you may not have thought about why. Water supports many parts of the body, including the immune system. It can also help you remove toxins from the body. As for how much water to get, you’ll likely know when you haven’t had enough because you feel thirsty. If you find water boring to drink, try adding a slice of lemon or a few mint leaves to make it more appealing. Also, consider keeping a water bottle by your desk in the home office to remind you to take sips throughout the day to help you feel your best. 

Conclusion: Being Your Best Self

Building your immune system is worth it, as you may be sick less often and have more energy. By doing stress-relieving activities, eating a range of nutritious foods, and supplementing as needed (garlic has no odor!), you can start to feel stronger and healthier. Be sure to get enough sleep and drink water regularly, too.