Let’s talk about your immune system, what is chemotherapy, foods that heal your gut, and strengthening your legs and your balance.
“The body heals with play, the mind heals with laughter, and the spirit heals with joy.” Proverb
There are many ways you can take care of your body just as there are plenty of ways to neglect your body, so I’m going to ask you, “what do you feed yourself?” This is about what you drink and eat physically, what you read and watch mentally, what/who you spend time with emotionally, and what you meditate and study spiritually. Having greater awareness of how you flow through this life, here and now, will help you to improve your health and maintain it for the long run.
“The air you breathe is a threat to your immune system. Studies show that 98% of the world’s population breathes polluted air every day.”
From the Longevity Playbook:
| Protect the System that Protects You |
| Your body is under constant attack. Harmful substances are in the air you breathe, the water you drink, and the food you eat. You can’t avoid them completely. Is your body equipped to handle them all?
Relax. Your body has a system that protects you from infections, diseases, and a list of harmful substances that seems to get longer every year. This internal police department is your immune system. By keeping your immune system strong, you avoid inflammation, a cause of nearly all illnesses. Recent data also suggests that a healthy immune system even reduces your risk of dementia. Stress seriously weakens your immune system, as do other factors like fatigue and poor diet. Fortunately, you can strengthen that system with a combination of stress management, meditation, social interaction, and play. Having a passion, a driving purpose, helps as well. Our doctors recommend not smoking, getting 7 to 9 hours of sleep nightly, and maintaining a healthy weight. Being overweight increases body-wide inflammation, so it’s important to eat a healthful diet. This not only means limiting saturated fats and simple sugars, it also usually means making sure you get the proper levels of vitamins and minerals. Of course, you can take supplements, but the smartest approach is to get your nutrients in fresh, unprocessed foods. |
“Laughter releases dopamine and other chemicals that help you feel good. This helps reduce stress, which in turn boosts your immune system.”
A brief summary of your immune system
Video link
FYI: 9 things to know about chemotherapy
I know a few people with cancer who are going through chemotherapy sessions right now, and this is a short overview in case you’re dealing with it as well.
NUTRITION
7 gut-healing foods
EXERCISE FOR THE MONTH
One legged knee bends
Video link
A very important exercise to help strengthen your ankles and arches and improve your balance (a two-fer)
THOUGHTS FOR THE MONTH
“Kindness is always fashionable, and always welcome.” Amelia Barr
“If you think education is expensive, try ignorance.” Derek Bok
“It’s best to give while your hand is still warm.” Philip Roth