Your immune system is working hard every day, trying to keep you healthy. How do you know your immune system is not working at its best? You catch 2-3 colds a year, have chronic infections and your lymph glands are sore or swollen (they're underneath your jaw line, under your arm pits and in your groin area. If they're enlarged, they're likely fighting an infection).
source: http://www.mananatomy.com/basic-anatomy/components-lymphatic-system
The immune system is composed of the lymphatic vessels and organs (spleen, lymph nodes, thymus, tonsils), the white blood cells (which kill off invaders) and other cells. The fluid between your cells is called lymph. It removes waste products from the cells and filters out bacteria, viruses (such as the flu virus), and yeast. You want to make sure your lymph is flowing properly so your body can rid itself of invaders that can make you sick.
Your immunity isn't always at 100% because it is affected by many factors, such as stress, nutrient deficiency, protein deficiency, too much sugar (lowers white blood cell activity), obesity, alcohol consumption (also lowers white blood cell activity), and exercise. However, there's a lot you can do to boost your immunity, such as taking Vitamins A, C, and E (the antioxidants), B-Vitamins, selenium, zinc and iron. A good quality multi-vitamin will ensure you get your basics covered. Regular exercise boosts your immunity, as well as a healthy weight and a diet low in sugar and adequate in protein.
I've been a big fan of skin brushing and it's actually a great way to boost your lymphatic system and in turn your immunity. Here are the many benefits:
- Creates beautiful, glowing skin
- Supports cell turnover and faster growth of new healthy cells
- Moves congested fluids and water retention along
- Stimulates circulation
- Stimulates the expulsion of hardened matter that blocks the lymph flow
- Reduces inflammation of the lymph nodes
- Improves the tone of your body. It is thought that 3 minutes a day equals 30 minutes of vigorous physical exercise, when done regularly
- Decreases the appearance of cellulite and helps the fat cells release toxins
How to do it:
- You should brush your skin before showering or taking a bath. Brush your dry skin. It takes no more than 2 minutes and is very invigorating.
- Use a dry bristle brush (horse bristles are great) and gently rub it over every body part, except the face and front of your neck, with long strokes towards your heart
- Don't push, but rather be very gentle.
- Shower and then moisturize afterwards
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