By Rick Mautz – Denver, Colorado …We are living in a challenging time, and most of us are making the best of it. We wear our masks, keep our distance, wash our hands, and we cross our fingers and pray that everything will be alright.
Prayer should not be our last resort, but our first line of defense. However, what if the answer to our prayer is, “I already gave you the answer; now there is something you can do.”
The most effective tools, in my opinion, to boost our immune system during these challenging times, follow:
–According to the CDC, whole foods like dark, leafy greens, oranges and tomatoes–even fresh herbs–are loaded with disease-fighting elements. Make it a habit to eat more whole, nutritious foods like high, antioxidant-rich fruits, vegetables, and legumes instead of processed snacks or fast food. This might be a good time to cut down or eliminate the use of animal products, a major source of oxidative stress.
–Stay active. Take a brisk walk or jog outside daily. Push-ups, sit-ups, or jumping-jacks can be done almost anywhere.
–Sleep is critical to a healthy immune system. Seven to nine hours of natural sleep is recommended by the CDC. A cool, dark, well-ventilated, quiet sleeping area all encourage sleep. After our daily exercise and sun exposure, observe at least one hour of quiet, wind-down time, and finish eating at least four hours before sleep.
–Take time to care for yourself and those around you with a positive, supportive attitude.
–Avoid stress and anxiety. Focus on what you can do rather than the things you have no control over. Realize that God is a source of strength and support. He is still on His throne.
–Stay connected with loved ones and church members. Avoid isolation by calling or texting those who give you comfort and those you can help as well.
The purpose of this article is to give you the weapons to win this battle. It is your choice to use them or not.
You can pray and hope, or you can pray and act.
–Rick Mautz is RMC Health Ministries director; photo by UnSplash
