Inhaling with essential oils
Nothing will clear your sinuses better that taking in a steam and to max the relaxation, add in a couple of droplets of your favourite essential oil—rose, tangerine and cardamom or lemongrass. This way, you’ll be relaxing your entire body and the minerals in the essential oils will strengthen your immune system in more ways than one. A total stress buster with benefits to write home about!
Wheatgrass juice
A potent detoxifier, rich in enzymes, antioxidants and proteins—wheat grass juice will clear your skin (not to mention, it will ward off skin disorders during the monsoon), reduce body odour and boost your immunity like none other.
Soak up sunshine
Soak in as much sunshine as you can! Vitamin D, which can only be naturally attained through exposure to sunlight, is crucial for maintaining a strong immune system. So whether that means a jog in the morning or a yoga asana on the terrace, a little bit of sunlight will promise you big returns this flu season.
Garlic bulbs
Don’t let the pungent smell of garlic deter you this monsoon. A quick brush and mouthwash rinse can easily fix that and in the bargain, you won’t fall sick! Garlic truly is a superstar. Raw garlic contains allicin, sulphur compounds and a plethora of other health boosters, which have strong anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties. So, if you’re brave enough, take it raw – otherwise you can always crush a clove of garlic, drench it with honey and go for it. And, if you’re really cringing at the thought of raw garlic, whip it up in scrambled eggs or smear it over toast with butter and cheese.
Bath Salts
Aromatherapy defends your body against common colds, flu and pain. In addition, basking in a bath with salts will not only give your body that boost of immunity but will also give you emotional support by relaxing your body, moisturising your skin and fortifying your immune system.
Stretch your way to good health
Stretch out and move your lymphs. Jump rope for a few minutes, do some arm rotations and stretch out. Lymph movement is crucial to immunity and even though this is probably the last thing you want to do while you’re feeling under the weather, you’ll notice the difference to your health almost instantaneously.
Written by Nazneen Joshi on Jul 23, 2014