The Immune System - Building a Strong Defense

By Natalie Vickery

The first line of defense when it comes to combating any disease or illness is to keep the immune system functioning properly. If given the opportunity and the right environment, the body will heal itself naturally. However, if the immune system is weak we are less likely to have the ability to defend ourselves from invaders which cause ill health.

There is a strong relationship between the mind and body with regards to the immune system. Psychological factors have a direct affect on immune health. When under stress, depressed or during times of emotional change or emotional turmoil the immune function can become severely weakened.

Some factors that will aid in strengthening the immune system are as simple as exercise, and a nutritious diet high in complex carbohydrates, low in fat, and free of preservatives and chemicals. Another step towards a strong defense is to reduce stress through meditation, relaxation, laughter or whatever method works best for you.

Herbs, which are known to enhance the immune system, may be taken along with a healthy diet. Some herbs which are beneficial to the immune system are Echinacea, Siberian Ginseng, Garlic, Usnea, Elderberry, Astragalus, and Oregon Grape just to name a few. Essential oils are also pivotal in maintaining a beneficial environment, which is free from disease. Because of their antibacterial and anti-microbial properties, essential oils may be applied to the skin to help defend against bacterial or viral infections. top

Vitamins/Mineral Supplements should certainly never replace a healthy diet, however, they may help to build up the body when the diet is lacking. All vitamins and minerals are essential to good health. Without the proper nutrients the body becomes depleted and the immune system becomes compromised. Environmental pollutants, radiation, chemicals, etc produce free radicals. Free radicals are unstable atoms, which create oxidation in the body and have the ability to damage normal cells. The body can deal with some free radicals, however, when they become excessive and there are no antioxidants present, damage to cells can occur. Antioxidants donate an electron to the free radical or unstable molecule. Vitamins C and E are important antioxidants that help keep the immune system in check. Zinc and vitamin A are effective in increasing T cell activity. If the body is deficient in selenium antibody response is lowered. It is important to understand that vitamins and minerals work synergistically together and one without the other is of very little benefit. It is important to supplement the body when diet is lacking and when under additional emotional or physical stress.

By combining herbs, vitamins, and essential oils with a nutritious diet, and exercise and by learning to reduce stress, not only will you build a strong immune system, but you will also be building a strong foundation, which is free from disease. Keep in mind that a healthy psychological balance is also crucial in supporting immune function. It is important to have strong relationships as well as a positive attitude. -The mind and body working together as a whole to help prevent disease.

Natalie Vickery is a Certified Family Herbalist and a doctoral student in Naturopathy. Her primary philosophy is "The Doctor as the Teacher", as she works to educate others on the benefits of healing naturally and taking responsibility for individual health. Natalie is a member of the American Herbalist Guild and provides consultations focusing on nutrition and herbal medicine. If you are interested in learning more about Natalie or her practice you can find her on the web at http://thefamilyherbalist.com top

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Natalie_Vickery

Massage for... Weekend Warriors

Are you an amateur athlete looking to naturally enhance your performance? Professional athletes have long known about the benefits massage has to offer them. Increased body awareness, injury prevention plus the psychological benefits have made massage an integral part of sports training.

You do no have to be an elite athlete to benefit however. In fact, the amateur enthusiast
or weekend warrior stands to see more gains from including massage into their program than a professional.

So what exactly is drawing more athletes to sports massage? The single biggest reason the amateur uses massage is for injury prevention. Massage will reduce the risk of injury by releasing latent trigger points (a cause of shortened muscles) thus elongating the afflicted muscle. As supple muscle helps to create greater flexibility and with it less of an occurrence of muscle tear and strain.

“Massage, delivered with the proper techniques, can be a means of giving athletes the edge, both physically and psychologically, in their sport,” claims Shirley Vanderbilt of Massage and Bodywork. top

Those who are a bit more serious will find their performance and timing improved. Massage generally creates a greater sense of body awareness. Movements become more fluid and require less work making for improved energy efficiency. This energy saved can be used down the homestretch when your opponent is out of gas.

Workout enthusiasts are finding they stay more motivated with massage. Because massage increases the body’s recovery capacity, you are not as sore after a hard workout. This means you might train more frequently.

Product Review

This month’s product, the TheraCane, is one that I, a Licensed Massage Therapist, use myself it’s so good. The TheraCane is a self-massager designed for you to work those deep “knots” out of your muscles. Especially those between the shoulder blades! A terrific device to have when you can’t get in to see your massage therapist. top

Stretch

Here’s a great stretch for your low back. Do it before getting out of bed in the morning as a way of waking your muscles up.

• Reduce overall morning stiffness
• Prepares your muscles to accept your body weight
• Great preventative stretch

While lying on your back pull your right knee to your chest. Hold this easy stretch for about 10-15 seconds. Slightly pull right knee across your body towards your left shoulder. Hold 15 seconds. Relax. Repeat on the other side. Remember this is a gentle stretch. Should you feel discomfort back off the stretch a bit. top

Self Care

Hydrotherapy is a indispensible skill of a massage therapist. Hydrotherapy is defined as the use of water in any of its three forms gas (vapor), liquid (water), or solid (ice) to produce a therapeutic result. Included in the study of hydrotherapy are aromatherapy, herbalism, thalaso (ocean) therapy, light therapy, and spa treatments. Some of the things this section will cover are baths, icing injuries, infrared heat, body treatments, and much more. We will see that hydrotherapy has roots older that history. For example, hydrotherapy includes the most basic health practices that helps put an end to plagues - bathing. top