Here we share 7 tips we can all use to support our health.
1. Nutrition for the immune system
Our bodies need basic nutrition to function well. We at Glimja like to say: "Diet is the most important thing!". Cook your own food at home as much as you can with nutrient-rich, real and pure ingredients. Fill up with the colors of the rainbow from vegetables every day!. What gives vegetables, fruits and berries their beautiful colors is called phytochemicals or phytonutrients. In the human body, these substances function as antioxidants; they reduce inflammation and support the immune system. You can easily make nutrient-rich smoothies or juices. This is a real energy boost rich in vitamin C and chlorophyll – exactly what the body needs to build itself up for new challenges.
Smoothie for an energy boost – 2 servings:
4 green kiwis
1 medium avocado
2 handfuls of baby spinach
2 capsules camu camu extract (open the capsules and pour in)
1 tsp wheatgrass juice – or wheatgrass juice powder or other lovely green
5 dl water
Cut the kiwis and avocado in half and scoop out the flesh. Add together with the remaining ingredients to a blender and blend to a creamy consistency. Drink for breakfast or as a snack.
2. Adaptogens for strength and balance
There is a class of herbs called adaptogens, which means they help the body adapt to both physical and mental challenges. Adaptogens have been used by all cultures in different parts of the world for thousands of years. In our time, we have access to the world's most powerful herbs of this kind. We at Glimja gladly take adaptogens and see it as a prerequisite for feeling our best and living as long as we can.
3. Home pharmacy when viruses and bacteria strike
When a cold does strike, for you or someone else in the family, it's good to have natural supplements and herbs on hand that can shorten the recovery time and relieve symptoms in the meantime. Some of our favorites are garlic, olive leaf extract, oregano oil, elderberry, vitamin C, vitamin D and zinc.
4. Sleep
Sleeping is super important for our immune system. During the night, all the body's systems cleanse and recover, which increases the chances of resisting viruses, bacteria and stress during the day.
5. Exercise
Perhaps the most important thing for the immune system is regular and joyful movement.
Overexertion has the opposite effect; but challenging yourself moderately and reminding your body that you're alive 2-4 times a week is one of the best things you can do to kick-start your body's circulation, cleansing and energy production.
Jump on a trampoline, dance, do yoga, run, climb, play sports or go to the gym – do it regularly and your body will thank you.
6. Sunlight and air
When we enter the dark periods in the Nordic countries, it can be easy to forget how good we feel from being outdoors and breathing fresh air – and not least taking in natural light.
People who spend large parts of their days outdoors generally feel better both physically and mentally than average.
If you, like us here at Glimja, have a sedentary indoor job, try to take at least one walk, or why not do a workout session, outdoors every day. 30 minutes of daylight can work wonders for a tired brain.
7. Socialize, rest and enjoy
Our "rest and relaxation system" needs to receive as much stimulation as our other systems. Getting to eat well together with family or friends, socializing, laughing, talking about important things, giving or receiving massage, meditating, spending time in nature etc., are all different ways to activate this system and gain access to the restorative hormones and signaling substances that are released when we feel good and safe. This in turn supports both our immune system and our ability to work, learn and be creative.
Do you have more great tips? Feel free to share them in a comment!
