Not a medical professional, but staying healthy is top of mind.   So take it all with a grain of salt!  I hesitated to write this, because I know how tenuous health can be.  It’s extremely personal – so what may work for me, might not for you.  Also, what works for me now, may not at some point.   But there might be a helpful takeaway for you in this post, and that is why I’m writing it.  Having had a major health crisis 15 (!!) years ago, I live with a bit of anxiety around getting sick.  I try to strengthen my immunity as much as possible.  Especially during this time of year when there are lots of bugs around.  

1.  Wellness shots.  I love to make my own using these glass bottles from Amazon.  I use my juicer, so I don’t need to peel anything, just thoroughly scrub the outside.  I use a quite a few knobs of turmeric, ginger, and lemons then top it with a splash of Apple Cider Vinegar and a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.  If you want to mix in coconut water, that will help your juice go a little farther.  You can buy these kind of shots at Whole Foods or Trader Joes.  But they are $$$ compared to making your own.  I’ve had my juicer since 2019, and it’s something that has definitely gotten its cost per use in our house.  I drink this first thing every morning.  

2.  “Let food be thy medicine” … I aim for as many whole foods as possible for our fam.  I love knowing what’s in my food, where my meat comes from, how my fruit was cleaned – so I do like to cook a lot for our family.  I try to eat anti-inflammatory foods, that are low in sugar, because that’s when I feel my best.  But I’m not one to say no if I’m craving something.    one of my favorite immune boosting soups is this one!  

 3.  Drink lots of water.  I fill up this 40 ounce cup twice a day.  Morning and mid day.  It’s hot here, and I know people say to drink room temp water.  But I love ice, and it helps me drink more water.  I also love a spindrift.  and winding down with some sleepy time tea.  All ways to get in some hydration- because I certainly drink my fill of coffee in the morning.  

4.  Exercise.  For years that only meant walking.  Honestly it was all I made time for, and the occasional tennis.  But we’ve been strength training three times a week since February.  I do think it has helped strengthen my immunity.  For sure my endurance too – to be up for pickle ball, skiing, or tennis and not wiped out afterwards.  

5.  Spend time outside!  When I am not heading to the gym first thing, I am walking my neighborhood.  I also try for a mid day walk too as that’s usually when I get into a slump with work or house work. It’s not a very long walk, but I’ve got my route, and it gives me a quick boost.  

6.  prioritize sleep.  Good sheets, cool room, blackout shades, sleepy time tea, and going to bed at the same time every night – all help me get ready for a good night of sleep.  

7.  Baths.  I love epsom salt baths.  I like the plain kind.   This kind from goop is great for before bed, or after a long day.  I don’t always make time for a bath before bed,  but it does help me sleep better when I do.  

8.  sauna blanket – I got this for a birthday present last year and have loved using it a couple times a week as a detox.  I feel like it really helps me sleep at night.  

9.  Vitamins.  I restock our weekly vitamins every Sunday night.  I organize it by day in this pill organizer.  I think just getting into the routine of it is the hardest part, but once you’re in a groove, you can’t imagine not starting / ending your day with it.  In the morning I take my probiotic, fish oil, B vitamin, and Vitamin D.  In the evening I take magnesium and fish oil, 

10.  Manage stress.  For me that means limiting my phone, staying connected with fam and friends, and sooo much of the above.